The Bard in Central Park, NY: A Scandalous Unveiling in the Heart of the Gilded

William Shakespeare, boyo, the fine bronze statue stationed in Central Park, Manhattan, New York City, is a right proper rendition of the acclaimed English scribe. Designed by John Quincy Adams Ward for the Century Association in 1864, it was based on the features of Shakespeare and the attire of legendary thespian, Edwin Booth. Jacob Wrey Mould handled the exquisite design of the pedestal, and the funds for it were raised during a stellar showing of Julius Caesar in the very same year – all right at a benefit performance. But the story doesn't end there, chum; the unveiling ceremony on May 23, 1872, was shrouded in mystery when an over-zealous poet's heartfelt homage was pulled by the fuzz, for being a smidgen too racy for the times.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons