The Mystery of the Freeborn Finial

A finial is a decorative architectural adornment frequently mounted near the top of a stately edifice such as a Library, Bank, Cathedral, School or Government Center.  Handcrafted or individually sculptured, finials are designed to resemble "budding flowers" or "leaf buds" to herald new life or signify the birth of something beautiful. 

The finial you see here was once part of a set of four anchored to the original Courthouse Clock Tower.  Sadly, during the middle of the 20th century, the clock tower was dismantled and all remnants were removed and destroyed.  In 2004, while in the midst of the courthouse restoration project, Commissioner Dave Mullenbach led a construction crew up in the attic of the 1887 courthouse building so they could inspect the roof joists.  There in a darkened corner, covered under layers of dust and piles of debris Dave found this finial. 

The red arrow on the picture of the courthouse indicates where the finial was originally perched on the building.  Based on its historical significance and the fact that this is the only finial of the original four to be found, Destination Albert Lea asked the Courthouse Building Committee to save it and have it displayed in the Grand Hall of the Historic County Courthouse for visitors and guests to view and enjoy.

To ensure that the Freeborn Finial would be displayed in an upright position, Commissioner Mark Behrends constructed a stained wooden base on which it rests.  Odean Nelson, a local carpenter, volunteered to hand craft the wooden pedestal to accommodate Commissioner Behrends' base.

Many like to compare the legends associated with gargoyles to finials.  Throughout history, architects have meticulously incorporated gargoyles into their building designs to fend off evil, avert danger and attract good fortune.  It is uncertain whether this finial possesses any mysterious powers or produces inimitable results, however, visitors here in the Grand Hall enjoy rubbing it for good luck.

Feel free to rub the Freeborn Finial!  If you wish, spare change can be deposited in the slot provided.  All funds donated will be used to support restoration projects within beautiful, historic downtown Albert Lea.

Keep watch for the finial ... it could appear anywhere!