Building Bama: Tuska Plaza

A new greeter to the UA campus recently moved from across town to his new home in front of Bryant-Denny Stadium along University Boulevard.

Tuska, a 19-foot-tall, seven-ton bronze elephant statue that has resided at the NorthRiver Yacht Club for more than 20 years, was recently given to the University by The Westervelt Company and placed at the corner of University Boulevard and Wallace Wade Avenue. A generous gift from Bill and Mary Battle made the move possible.

Tuska was sculpted by English artist Terry Mathews, who is well-known for his wildlife sculptures. The life-size bronze elephant statue is believed to be the largest of its kind in the world. Tuska was unveiled at NorthRiver in September 2000.

Tuska’s time at NorthRiver came to an end March 22 when he was removed by crane and stored in a secure location before moving to his new home April 12.

The Tuska Plaza project included new landscaping, a large pedestal for Tuska to stand on, sidewalks surrounding the statue and lighting elements for nighttime viewing. Cameras were also installed to ensure Tuska’s safety at all times.

Tuska Statue Installation

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