Iconic 'Matilde' Statue Moved to Artist's Garden During Walla Walla Library Expansion

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The whimsical bronze cow sculpture known as 'Matilde' that has greeted patrons at the Walla Walla Public Library for years has been temporarily relocated to the personal statue garden of the artist, Nano Lopez, as the library undergoes a major renovation and expansion project. The delicate move was handled by a local crane company under Lopez's supervision, and the statue is expected to return to a new high-visibility spot on the library grounds once construction is finalized.

Why it matters

The 'Matilde' statue has become an iconic landmark and beloved part of the Walla Walla community over the past two decades. Its temporary relocation is a symbolic milestone in the library's long-awaited expansion, which will transform the facility to better serve the growing population.

The details

The colorful bronze sculpture, known for its festive appearance and its burden of local produce destined for market, was carefully moved on Tuesday morning by Hays Crane and Rigging of Walla Walla under the direct supervision of the sculptor, Nano Lopez. The relocation is a precursor to the library's upcoming renovation and expansion project, which requires the ground where the statue formerly stood.

• The 'Matilde' statue was created in 2003.
• The statue was moved on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
• The library's renovation and expansion project is expected to be completed in the near future, at which point the 'Matilde' statue will return to a new location on the library grounds.

What’s next

Once the library's renovation and expansion project is completed, the 'Matilde' statue will return to a new, high-visibility location on the library grounds.