Carroll Shelby statue to be erected in Pittsburg

PITTSBURG, Texas ( KETK ) – The City of Pittsburg has announced that it plans to erect a life-sized bronze statue of famed automotive engineer and East Texas native, Carroll Shelby.

“Carroll Shelby is not only a celebrated figure in the automotive world but was also a
cherished member of our community. His remarkable achievements resonate with the
people of Pittsburg, making him a natural choice for this commemorative project.”

City of Pittsburg

Shelby was born near Pittsburg in Leesburg on Jan. 11, 1923. As an automotive engineer, Shelby helped develop the Shelby Cobra, the Ford Mustang and the Ford GT40, which won the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race for four consecutive years from 1966 to 1969.

As a driver, he was a part of the team that won the 1959 Le Mans race. Shelby designed the Gt40 with fellow driver and engineer Ken Miles. Shelby and Miles were played by actors Matt Damon and Christian Bale in the 2019 film Ford V Ferrari.

“His innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to inspire generations of enthusiasts and engineers worldwide. The last Shelby car that Carroll Shelby purchased is housed and displayed in the Northeast Texas Rural Heritage Museum in Pittsburg. The statue will serve as a timeless tribute to a man whose passion, ingenuity and spirit epitomize the American Dream,” a City of Pittsburg press release said.

The statue still needs support from the community so the city is asking public and private donors to to help them raise $70,000 for the statue by December.

Anyone interested in donating is asked to contact Niecy Baum by email at nbaum@pittsburgtx.gov or to visit the City of Pittsburg online .

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