This Roadside Spot in Maryland Is a Local Favorite—Here’s Why

I love discovering an interesting piece of history in an unexpected location. Whether it is a plaque attached to an old wall in a small town park or an obscure memorial located on the side of the interstate, unusual roadside attractions never fail to fascinate me. I've recently learned about another interesting local landmark tucked away within the University of Maryland's College Park campus. This wonderful memorial pays tribute to one of my favorite childhood creators, and I can't wait to tell you all about it. 

The sprawling University of Maryland campus has several beautiful statues and memorials, but this whimsical tribute is a favorite among students. Wander just outside the school's Adele H. Stamp Student Union, and you will find a gorgeous memorial garden dedicated to the beloved artist Jim Henson, a 1960 University of Maryland graduate. Henson was the creator of so many of my favorite childhood television characters from popular shows such as "Sesame Street," "The Muppet Show," and "Fraggle Rock." Throughout his short career, he also created several Muppet-themed movies and two additional films, "Labyrinth" and "The Dark Crystal." I can say that my childhood was more fun due to Henson's extreme talent and never-ending creativity. 

A detailed statue paying tribute to the American legend who brought smiles and laughter to so many people is located within the memorial garden, which is filled with redbuds, roses, and boxwoods. The statue depicts Henson deep in conversation with one of his most well-known puppets, Kermit the Frog, who sits atop a granite bench. Perhaps they are speaking about Kermit's love interest, the feisty Miss Piggy, or maybe Kermit is telling Henson about the pros and cons of being the color green. We may never know the conversation, but one thing is for sure: artist Jay Hall Carpenter perfectly captured the spirit of Henson and his favorite amphibious friend in this incredible 450-pound sculpture.

The statue and memorial garden were funded by money gifted from the University of Maryland classes of 1994, 1998, and 1999. An unveiling ceremony filled with Muppet fanfare (including the flying of an enormous Kermit balloon) took place on September 24th, 2003. Henson sadly passed in 1990, but this date would have been his 67th birthday. The ceremony was a fitting tribute to an incredible artist and human being whose spirit lives on in his many creations.

Do you have an unusual statue or memorial that you like to visit? If so, please tell us why it intrigues you. For even more interesting sculptures in Maryland, be sure to visit the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Solomons. And if you want to find out even more about Jim Henson, you can also visit the Birthplace of Kermit the Frog Museum in Leland, Mississippi. Jim Henson: The Biography, by author Brian Jay Jones, is also an interesting and informative read. Looking for other things to do in Maryland? Use our new Travel Planner!