The Ashland Parks Foundation, with the City of Ashland’s permission, will lead a project to recreate the historic Butler-Perozzi Fountain in Lithia Park, preserving its beauty and structural integrity for generations to come.

The Butler-Perozzi Fountain, originally carved in Italy for the 1915 Panama-pacific International Exposition, was installed in Lithia Park in 1916. Since then, it has served as a beloved park landmark. Due to the soft nature of the original marble and Southern Oregon’s weather conditions, the fountain has suffered significant deterioration over time and undergone several restoration efforts over the last century. 

Today, the fountain has severe weathering, cracking, and mechanical issues, marking the need for another major restoration effort. The Ashland Parks Foundation, through generous community support, has raised approximately $800,000 to bring the fountain back to life, and is preparing to break ground on the project.

As a part of their planning, the Ashland Parks Foundation formed a Construction Steering Committee made up of local builders, architects, planners, and historic preservation experts to determine how to most effectively use the donated funds.  Based on recommendations from the Steering Committee and with support from the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office, the project will create an exact replica of the 1915 fountain, using marble selected for its strength and ability to withstand Ashland’s climate.

“Once we fully understood the condition of the fountain and the limitations of the original marble, it became clear that repeated repairs would not provide a lasting solution,” said Mike Gardiner, President of the Ashland Parks Foundation and Construction Steering Committee member. “Creating an exact replica of the 1915 fountain allows us to honor the original design while ensuring long-term durability.”

The fountain will be reproduced by local sculptors Jack Langford and Kevin Christman in their Southern Oregon studio, using marble quarried in Vermont. The project also includes reconstruction of the surrounding terrace, stairs, plumbing, and electrical systems, which will be performed by local firm Outlier Construction. The bottom pedestal of the basin – the only remining component of the original historic fountain – will be displayed alongside the new fountain. 

Construction is expected to begin March 1, 2026, weather permitting, with completion anticipated by Fall 2026. Prior to construction, two maple trees near the fountain will be removed as their roots have caused significant structural damage to the fountain and its concrete foundation. Replacement landscaping is planned as part of the overall project, including trees to replace lost canopy within the park. The project is fully funded by the donations raised by the Ashland Parks Foundation.

“This project reflects the power of partnerships in creating a legacy for generations to come,” stated Sabrina Cotta, City Manager. “I want to thank the Parks Foundation for their tireless efforts in making this project happen.” 

Once complete, the Butler-Perozzi Fountain will continue to be a centerpiece of Lithia Park, honoring its historic origins while ensuring its continued presence as one of Ashland’s most cherished landmarks. For updates and additional information, visit ashlandparksfoundation.org/Butler-Perozzi-Fountain or email the Foundation. 

To learn more about Ashland’s parks and community, visit ashlandoregon.gov. We are Better Together.

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