Children’s Fountain at City Park
A Historic Tribute to Childhood
Nestled near the edge of Ferril Lake in Denver’s City Park, the Children’s Fountain is a graceful and contemplative sculpture that captures the innocence and curiosity of youth. Designed by Max Blondat, a French sculptor from Paris, the piece was originally commissioned in 1912 by Denver Mayor Robert Speer. The design was based on a sculpture created in 1905 and displayed in Düsseldorf, Germany. The fountain was installed in Denver in 1913 and was initially known as the “Dusseldorf Fountain.”
Carved from marble, the sculpture depicts three children peering over a rocky ledge, curiously observing three frogs below. Originally, the entire piece, including the frogs, was sculpted from marble. In 1918, the fountain was relocated to its current spot beside Ferril Lake. The following year, in 1919, it officially received the name Children’s Fountain. Over time, the frogs were recast in bronze to preserve their whimsical charm. In 1948, local sculptor Gladis Coldwell-Fisher restored the piece, adding her own personal touch by using molds taken from her children. A small moat was added around the fountain to frame the sculpture and protect it from wear. Max Blondat, the French sculptor, was known for his realistic and sentimental style, often capturing moments of quiet observation and wonder. In the Children’s Fountain, he portrays the children with expressions of gentle curiosity, their gaze fixed on the frogs below. This interaction between the children and the frogs could symbolize the simple joys and discoveries of childhood, a moment of innocent fascination with the natural world.
The fountain underwent another significant restoration in 1995, funded by the Colorado State Historical Society and the citizens of Denver. Though it no longer functions as a working fountain, the sculpture continues to invite quiet reflection. Park visitors can sit on benches placed both in front of the sculpture and overlooking the lake behind it—offering peaceful views of this gentle and expressive work of public art.
Getting There & Visitor Info
The best access point for visiting the Children’s Fountain is via the parking circle near the southwest corner of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Drivers should enter the park from East Montview Boulevard at Colorado Boulevard, then follow the internal road west to the roundabout. From there, it’s a short walk along Ferril Lake Loop to reach the fountain. The setting is serene, with shady trees, tranquil lake views, and benches nearby—making it a perfect stop for a moment of rest or reflection.
