Windhover, by Robert Murray, 1970
(inspired by the poem, The Windhover, by Gerard Manley Hopkins, 1877)
In 1974, the Committee for Art (CFA) at Hinsdale Junior High raised over $20,000 to purchase the sculpture and bring it to Hinsdale’s outdoor art scene. It was partially funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Their goals were: “To provide a tangible, lasting way of expressing our pride in the past and hope for the future; To create a favorable climate for the reception of all arts; To provide future generations with a distinguished heritage of community art.”
The Windhover was installed on September 14, 1976, in celebration of the nation’s bicentennial and coinciding with construction of the new HMS building. At the installation, Mr. Murray himself declared that he dedicated the Windhover “to honor all D181 students past, present, and future.”
Did you know that the Windhover has been officially registered by the Smithsonian? Because of its role in the history of outdoor sculptures, the Smithsonian designated it as a “significant outdoor sculpture,” one of about only 400 sculptures nationwide to hold this honor! Learn more about the Windhover HERE.
After 45 years, the sculpture was restored in 2021. Years of graffiti and peeling paint brought this significant work of art to a point where it needed complete refinishing.
District 181, HMS PTO and private donors partnered to restore and relocate the Windhover to the South lawn and bus loop. The ongoing project includes a professionally treated coating that is durable and weather resistant, fresh landscaping, seating for students, appropriate lighting, and security cameras. All additional funds raised will be put toward future upkeep of the sculpture.
Donations for Windhover upkeep may be sent to:
Hinsdale Middle School PTO
re: Windhover Restoration
100 S. Garfield Ave,
Hinsdale, IL 60521
windhover@hmspto.org
Thank you to our generous donors who helped to make the 2021 restoration possible!