Childhood Memories Come to Life With Spectacular Sculpture in Wellsboro

When I was a little girl, my mom would sit by my bed and read me 'Wynken, Blynken, and Nod,' a poem that was originally called The Dutch Lullaby.

Get our free mobile app

When I became a mom, I would sit by my baby's bed and read the same special poem to him, wondering if he was falling asleep to visions of three children soaring through the sky in a wooden shoe just as I had when I was little.

Last year, my family made a spur-of-the-moment decision to explore the astounding Pennsylvania grand canyon in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania. After settling in at our hotel, we went for a stroll and found ourselves in the most adorable small-town park. It was there that I laid eyes on a statute depicting the poem I so loved as a child and so loved reading to my son. I had no idea it existed and stood in awe with tears rolling down my cheeks.

One of the most iconic and beloved landmarks in Wellsboro is the Wynken, Blynken, and Nod statue. This enchanting sculpture features the three characters from Eugene Field's poem of the same name but the sculpture is a nod to more than just a children's poem, it is also a tribute to a much-loved woman named Elizabeth Cameron Bailey.

The Wynken, Blynken, and Nod statue was created in the 1920s and tells the story of three children sailing off to a magical land of dreams. The statue depicts the three children in their boat, with Wynken holding a lantern, Blynken a fishing net, and Nod fast asleep.

SEE ALSO: Only Two Hours From Central New York, the PA Grand Canyon Is a Wonder That Must Be Seen

Elizabeth Cameron Bailey, to whom the statue is a tribute, was the daughter of Tioga County Judge David Cameron and the beloved wife of Fred Bailey. Mr. Bailey, also a Wellsboro native, would become a state senator and one of the founders of the United States National Bank.

When Elizabeth Cameron Bailey passed away, her husband decided to honor her memory by placing the Wynken, Blynken, and Nod Statue on The Green in Wellsboro where it has lived ever since.

The Wynken, Blynken, and Nod statue is filled with intricate details and symbolism with the lantern held by Wynken representing the light of knowledge and education. The fishing net that Blynken is holding symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and the importance of curiosity. And Nod, who is fast asleep, represents the innocent and carefree nature of childhood.

Wellsboro is known for its beautiful natural scenery and charming downtown area. The town attracts visitors from all over the world due in large part to its historic landmarks and cultural attractions, including the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, the Wellsboro Diner, and the Tioga Central Railroad.