At Art of Bronze, we pride ourselves on going the extra mile for our customers—sometimes quite literally. In 2024, that dedication took us 1,585 miles to Omaha, Nebraska, for a statue restoration project steeped in history and significance.

Forest Lawn Cemetery in Omaha is home to a cherished sculpture, Elks Rest, gifted in 1922 by the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks #39. This monumental elk statue has stood as a symbol of remembrance and reverence for over a century. Unfortunately, vandals stole both antlers from the elk, cutting them off near the first brow tine, leaving the statue damaged and incomplete.

When the cemetery reached out to Art of Bronze for help, we knew this was more than a repair—it was an opportunity to restore a piece of history. Using photographs of the original sculpture provided by the cemetery, our skilled artisans meticulously crafted a new set of bronze antlers to match the elk’s original grandeur. The process involved not only precise casting but also the careful welding of the replacement antlers onto the statue to ensure a seamless restoration.

We couldn’t have completed this project without the incredible expertise of Jimmy Judd from Judd Performance Welding Fabrication. Jimmy worked tirelessly, even under challenging conditions, to bring this project to fruition. His skill and dedication to the craft were essential in restoring the elk to its former glory. And when he’s not performing metalwork miracles, you might just catch Jimmy racing his #95x car on the Midwest racing circuit—a testament to his multifaceted talent.

The restoration of Elks Rest was a labor of love and collaboration, proving once again that Art of Bronze is not just about creating bronze sculptures but about preserving legacies and honoring history. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and proud to have played a part in restoring this iconic piece for future generations to admire.

During my visit to the charming city of Omaha, Nebraska, I had the chance to do a little sightseeing—and what a treat it was! Omaha boasts an incredible collection of sculptures throughout its downtown business district, showcasing a deep appreciation for art and history.

The highlight of my exploration was undoubtedly the Pioneer Courage Park, home to the breathtaking Great Frontier Crossing bronze monument. This monumental sculpture brings history to life with life-size depictions of wagons, cattle, horses, bison, geese, and pioneers—women, men, and children—capturing the spirit of the westward expansion in vivid detail. I’ve never seen anything quite like it anywhere in America!

I also had the privilege of visiting the renowned Boys Town sculpture, a heartwarming and iconic representation of Omaha’s history and community values.

Omaha’s dedication to public art and its ability to celebrate its past through such magnificent sculptures left me deeply impressed and inspired. This city is truly a hidden gem for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike!