The sculpture stands as a lasting tribute to the tree’s place in the hearts of local people and the park’s heritage.
Following an outpouring of memories and tributes from residents and park users, the Council pledged to create a memorial that would reflect the community’s connection to the tree.
Ideas for a sculpture have been gathered through social media, an in-person drop-in at the park, and last year’s tree planting planning day. The artist, commissioned by the Council, drew inspiration from these contributions – stories of picnics, dog walks, and the area’s London Road coach trade heritage – to design a sculpture that invites everyone to interpret it in their own way.
We know that the ‘Lone Tree’ in Graves Park was special to many people in Sheffield. This new sculpture is a tribute to the memories and stories shared by our community, and a symbol of how we can celebrate our heritage together.
Thank you to everyone who contributed their ideas and memories, helping to shape a memorial that will be enjoyed for years to come.
Councillor Kurtis Crossthorn, Chair of the Communities, Parks and Leisure Committee at Sheffield City Council
Originally, ideas were shared to carve the sculpture from the tree itself. However, after careful assessment, it was found that the wood was too weathered for carving to be a lasting option.
Children have continued to enjoy playing around the fallen trunk as it naturally decays, returning to the park’s landscape. The new sculpture, made from durable cast iron, sits beside the tree and will remain for future generations – even for those who never saw the tree standing.
Over the coming weeks, the cast iron will naturally begin to rust, developing a striking orange hue before weathering and fading down over time – much like the beloved toad sculpture in Endcliffe Park or the Angel of the North.
The Council has also planted two new trees near the site of the original, ensuring that Graves Park’s landscape continues to thrive for future generations. These replacement trees have already been planted and are flourishing, helping to restore the park’s canopy and provide a living legacy alongside the new sculpture.