Harrisburg Portal
Public art has the power to tell stories, bring people together, and preserve history in a way that words alone cannot. The Harrisburg Portal, a striking sculpture in A. L. Williams Park at the corner of Broad and Eve Streets in Augusta, Georgia, does exactly that. This community-driven project, created by sculptor Larry Millard, was completed and dedicated on March 13, 2020, thanks to a grant from the Porter Fleming Fund alongside additional funding.
A Portal to the Past, Present, and Future
The Harrisburg Portal is more than just a piece of public art—it is a reflection of the rich history and evolving identity of Harrisburg. Millard worked closely with members of the community to ensure the sculpture resonated with the people it represents. The result is a vertical, perforated stainless steel structure that serves as a place-marker, a gathering space, and a time capsule.
Within its steel framework, the sculpture contains objects contributed by the people of Harrisburg—artifacts from homes, businesses, and industries that have shaped the neighborhood over the years. These objects include bricks, stones, bottles, tools, ceramics, machine parts, and other materials that residents felt were significant. Each artifact tells a story, serving as a tangible reminder of Harrisburg’s past while linking it to the present and future.
Community Collaboration and Cultural Significance
What makes the Harrisburg Portal unique is the level of community involvement in its creation. Residents were invited to contribute objects that held personal and historical significance, ensuring that the sculpture is not just an artist’s vision, but a collective representation of Harrisburg itself. By preserving these fragments of daily life, the Harrisburg Portal stands as a symbol of resilience, continuity, and pride.
As a public art piece, the sculpture offers a space for reflection, conversation, and connection. It provides an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to engage with Harrisburg’s evolving story—whether by recognizing familiar pieces within the sculpture or by simply experiencing its presence in the community.
The Porter Fleming Foundation’s Role
The Porter Fleming Foundation has long been dedicated to supporting artistic, cultural, and historical initiatives throughout Augusta and its neighboring counties. By funding the Harrisburg Portal, the foundation helped bring this ambitious public art project to life, ensuring that Harrisburg’s history remains visible and valued.
This project aligns with the foundation’s mission to enhance the cultural landscape of Augusta, providing a lasting monument to the identity of the Harrisburg community. Through its support, the Porter Fleming Foundation continues to invest in projects that foster community engagement, artistic expression, and historical preservation.
A Lasting Legacy
The Harrisburg Portal is more than a sculpture—it is a testament to the power of community-driven art. It is a space where history and creativity intersect, where past and present meet, and where residents can take pride in their neighborhood’s story.
Whether you are a longtime resident of Harrisburg, a newcomer to Augusta, or a visitor passing through, the Harrisburg Portal invites you to pause, observe, and reflect. It stands as a reminder that history is not just something we read about—it is something we live, create, and preserve together.