Tribute to Air Conditioning.
"Tribute to Air Conditioning" by artist Thomas Lyles

Tribute to Air Conditioning

Imagine visiting Alabama in the summer without air conditioning, and you'll understand why this sculpture exists. Its creation was captained by Gadsden civic leader Peter Gregerson, who couldn't believe that no tribute existed to Willis Carrier, the inventor of modern air conditioning. Gregerson was determined that Gadsden be first to right that wrong.

The tribute, unveiled in 2009, is 10 feet tall, 8 feet wide, weighs 1,500 pounds, and blows air. Built of copper, glass, and air conditioning components, it has rotating ductwork and a video screen that shows local people talking about how uncomfortable life was before air conditioning. Gregerson, old enough to remember those days himself, has said that he wants the sculpture to be on display for the next 100 years.

Tribute to Air Conditioning

Hardin Center for Cultural Arts

Address:: Broad St., Gadsden, AL
Directions:: In the lobby of the downtown Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, which is on the northwest corner of Broad and 5th Sts.
Hours:: Business hours. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:: 256-543-2787

Nearby Offbeat Places

Reb Helpy Helperton: Emma Sansom Statue, Gadsden, AL - < 1 mi.

Noccalula Falls Doomed Maiden, Gadsden, AL - 2 mi.

Alabama's Largest Confederate Memorial, Ohatchee, AL - 15 mi.

In the region:

Abandoned Airplane Gas Station, Vinemont, AL - 49 mi.

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