The Canandaigua area has a long-standing connection to a 7-foot-tall statue of Christ the Redeemer that holds a significant place in the area’s recreational history. Originally located at the Our Lady of Lebanon Chapel near Canandaigua Lake, the statue was moved to a field overlooking the lake by the Bigham family. Anne McDade Bigham, Farren’s grandmother, played a key role in relocating the statue after the chapel was decommissioned.
The statue has since become a symbol of spirituality and a beacon for visitors and retreatants at the Notre Dame Retreat House. The Bigham family ensured the statue’s preservation by selling their property to the Redemptorist Fathers with the condition that the statue would be maintained in perpetuity.
The statue, in need of regular refurbishing, has been touched up over the years by local artist Darryl Abraham, who sees it as both a nautical and spiritual landmark. To ensure the statue’s history is passed on, Farren and Jan Driscoll have been working to educate the community and future generations about its significance.
A celebration was held last October to mark the 90th anniversary of the statue’s move to the Bigham property, emphasizing its role as a place of quiet reflection for people of all faiths. Farren believes her grandmother would be pleased to see the statue continue to serve as a source of spiritual connection and beauty for the community.
The story of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Canandaigua serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving local history and landmarks for future generations to enjoy.
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