The American Molder is an “Occupational Monument” designed to be a tribute to the craftsmen and laborers of the Albion community.  Ed Chesney designed the molder to portray a non-racial appearance and honor hard-working people of all ethnicities whom the iron companies employed.

The sculpture is across the street from the Albion Post Office at the intersection of Michigan Ave. and Superior St.  A quote by James Russell Lowell on the plaque reads: “No man is born into the world whose work is not born with him. There is always work and tools to work with, for those who will, and blessed are the thorny hands of toil.”

Since the 19th century, several major manufacturers have been established in Albion, which was known as a factory town. This view of the city changed after several manufacturers closed. There was a shrinking industrial sector.  Throughout the mid-west and some parts of the northeast, and the phrase “Rust Belt” became popular.  In the 21st century, Albion’s culture is changing to that of a college town whose residents have a strong interest in technology and sustainability.  Albion’s connection to its foundry origins is kept alive with new businesses such as the Albion Malleable Brewery and the Foundry Bake House. 

The American Molder Sculpture – Catalog #166BW