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George V. Brown (1880 to 1937), a lifelong Hopkinton resident, played an important role in the development of many sports in America and worldwide. He served as starter for the Boston Marathon for over 30 years. In 1924, he helped move the starting line for the event to his hometown. Brown was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame for his role as a builder, held various positions with the US Olympics organization, served as General Manager of the Boston Garden, and much more.

George V. Brown--The Starter
Cold Cast Copper, Life Size, 2008

Click image to see full bronze monument at Boston Marathon starting line in Hopkinton, MA.

George V. Brown

by

Michael Alfano

The sculpture was unveiled at a performance by the MetroWest Symphony Orchestra as part of the 2008 Marathon Week kickoff event that also premiered the composition "Nenikekamen" by Chris Floria. Special guests included Walter Brown and Tom Burke, grandsons of George V. Brown, Gloria Ratti of the Boston Athletic Association, and Tim Kilduff of the Hopkinton Athletic Association (HAA). The HAA commissioned the sculpture, securing a grant from the State of Massachusetts as part of a larger effort to promote tourism in the MetroWest area based on the Boston Marathon.

During marathon weekend 2008, the sculpture was displayed near the starting line, on the Hopkinton Common, where runners and tourists from around the world lined up to pose with it for photo mementos of their race. After the race, the sculpture adorned the entrance to the Police Station, until it was permanently located on the Common in 2009. It uniquely distinguishes the start line year round, as an homage to the town residents who give generously to host the annual event, as well as a landmark for visitors.

In this photo, Michael and his children, Freeman and Kamala, pose as if ready to go. Michael is a qualified runner for the marathon, racing in 2007, 2008, and 2009.

Home

All Monuments

Inquiries

mail@malfano.com    508-435-4613
11 School St.   Hopkinton, MA 01748