‘So loved’: Why you’ll see a dog statue in Public Square

CLEVELAND (WJW) – There’s something new coming to Public Square.

The Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument announced Thursday that it will install a statue of Harvey, the cherished canine mascot of the 104th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in Public Square.

Harvey, a loyal companion to Captain Daniel M. Stearns, a Berea native, served the regiment during the Civil War.

Following the war, Harvey became an emotional support animal for Stearns, who struggled with undiagnosed PTSD, according to a press release.

After Stearns was unable to care for him, Harvey lived with other members of the regiment.

“Harvey was so loved by the men in his regiment that they commissioned an oil painting of him and wore commemorative buttons with his likeness,” said Greg Palumbo, Executive Director of the Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument. “We’re excited to share Harvey’s story with future generations who visit the Monument and Public Square.”

The statue will be a recast of an existing tribute located in the visitor center at The Battlefield of Franklin Trust in Franklin, Tennessee.

Initially, the statue will be placed inside the Monument until a permanent outdoor location is determined.

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