Balto

What to know

Standing on a rocky outcrop on the east side of Central Park at 67th Street, the Balto statue is one of the park's most cherished memorials. This bronze sculpture, created by Frederick Roth, depicts the Alaskan husky and sled dog who became a global symbol of courage. The monument was erected on December 17, 1925, funded by New York dog lovers who wanted to honor the canine's bravery. Balto earned his fame for his role in the 1925 diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska. Along with a team of sled dogs, Balto helped deliver critical serum to the citizens of the remote town, saving countless lives. The sculpture's placement near East Drive and the Willowdale Arch provides a rugged setting that evokes the wild terrain of the Alaskan frontier. The dedication ceremony in December 1925 was a grand event attended by both Balto and his musher, Gunnar Kaasen. Despite the prestige of the occasion, the New York Times noted that Balto himself displayed only dog interest in the festivities, remaining indifferent to the human fanfare surrounding his bronze likeness. Today, the statue remains a popular stop for visitors of all ages. The glowing bronze surface of the dog's form reflects the loving pats of countless children and adults who touch the monument as they pass by, keeping the memory of the heroic husky alive for new generations.

Visitor tips

• Look for the statue on a rock outcropping near the intersection of East Drive and 67th Street.
• Feel free to give the bronze dog a pat, as this is a long-standing tradition for visitors.
• Visit during the day to see how the bronze glows in the sunlight.

Nearby context

The statue is located on the east side of Central Park, situated north of the Central Park Zoo and just east of the Willowdale Arch.