Patience and Fortitude are the two magnificent lions that greet visitors at the entrance to the The New York Public Library. They are world-renowned and have “captured the imagination and affection of New Yorkers and visitors from all over the world since the Library was dedicated in 1911”. They were first known as “Leo Astor” and “Leo Lenox” after the Library founders, John Jacob Astor and James Lenox. Later they went by “Lady Astor” and “Lord Lenox” even though they are both unmistakeably male lions. It was in the 1930’s that Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia named the two “Patience” and “Fortitude”. He did so because he thought those were the qualities that New Yorkers needed to survive the depression. Today, Patience still proudly guards the south side of the Library’s steps and Fortitude proudly sits on the north side of the steps.
During the Christmas holidays you will see these two mascots donning Santa hats. When I first met them in December of 1999 they were wearing construction hats. I’d like to know if they dress for Halloween so… if you are privy to that information please let me know. (I suppose I could go upstairs and ask NY, as he did live in New York)
I’ve been in love with these two creatures since I first met them. They were the inspiration for the “Patience” and “Fortitude” who grace my front door. Like their namesakes, they wear Santa hats during the holidays and they are presently masquerading as Pirates for Halloween. Patience’s pirate hat is adorned with purple gems for eyes and he is holding a purple glittery sign that says “Wicked”. Fortitude’s pirate hat eyes are orange gems while his orange glittery sign says “Boo”. Last year they were witches with tall black pointy hats. (yes witches, even though they’re males) To me these two are part of the family and have taught the grandchildren a bit of culture and history. Seven year old A has known for years what their names are and who they’re named after. He’s even been to see the originals although he was only 10 months old. Nevertheless, “Patience” and “Fortitude” will always be greeting our friends and visitors regardless of where we live and they too will celebrate the holidays throughout the year along with the rest of us.
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