Kadie Cow of Columbus | Columbus City

Introduction and Description

Kadie the Cow is an iconic fiberglass statue measuring approximately 20 feet tall and crafted in the shape of a life-sized dairy cow. She is a well-known local landmark in Columbus, Georgia, symbolizing the city’s historical ties to the dairy industry and serving as a nostalgic emblem for residents and visitors alike. Kadie is visually striking due to her large scale and realistic yet stylized design, which captures the essence of a dairy cow in a friendly, approachable form.

Historical Origins

Kadie the Cow was originally commissioned in the early 1960s by Kinnett Dairies, a prominent local dairy company that operated in Columbus. The idea originated when John Kinnett, the owner of Kinnett Dairies, spotted a large fiberglass cow being transported by truck through the area en route to Florida. Inspired by this eye-catching figure, Kinnett decided to acquire a similar statue to promote his dairy business and to create a memorable roadside attraction.

The statue was fabricated by a fiberglass manufacturer specializing in large outdoor advertising sculptures, a common practice in mid-20th century America to draw attention to businesses. Kadie was installed prominently along the Manchester Expressway, a major thoroughfare in Columbus, directly in front of the Kinnett Dairies plant. The statue served as an advertisement and symbol of the company’s commitment to fresh, local dairy products.

Significance in Local Culture

Over the decades, Kadie evolved from a simple commercial mascot into a beloved symbol of Columbus’s industrial and agricultural heritage. She represents the era when local dairies were a cornerstone of the city’s economy and community life.

Residents grew fond of Kadie not just as a landmark but also as a quirky piece of Americana—an example of the “big things” culture seen in many towns where oversized sculptures serve as tourist attractions and points of pride.

Kadie became a familiar sight for generations of Columbus residents, appearing in family photos, postcards, and local lore. Her presence contributed to the city’s unique identity and helped foster community pride.

Relocation to Woodruff Riverfront Park

In April 2022, Kadie the Cow was carefully relocated from her longtime spot on the Manchester Expressway to Woodruff Riverfront Park, located in Uptown Columbus along the scenic Chattahoochee River.

This move was prompted by changes in the city’s industrial landscape and a desire to preserve Kadie as a cultural artifact rather than let her be lost to demolition or neglect. The relocation was a community-supported effort involving local government, businesses, and civic organizations committed to celebrating Columbus’s history.

At Woodruff Riverfront Park, Kadie now enjoys a more prominent and accessible setting, welcoming visitors who frequent the park for recreation and events. The move has revitalized interest in the statue, drawing tourists and locals alike to view and photograph this larger-than-life tribute.

Artistic and Technical Details

Material: The statue is made of fiberglass, a durable and weather-resistant composite material commonly used for outdoor sculptures.

Dimensions: Standing approximately 20 feet tall, Kadie is one of the largest fiberglass cow statues in the United States.

Design: The sculpture features realistic proportions and coloring typical of a Holstein dairy cow, with black and white patches and a friendly facial expression, designed to appeal to all ages.

Installation: Originally mounted on a heavy base along a busy highway, the statue was carefully dismantled and transported by crane to the new site at Woodruff Riverfront Park, where it is now securely anchored on a concrete foundation with enhanced visibility.

Community and Tourism Impact

Kadie serves as a beloved photo opportunity and a focal point for community events held in Woodruff Riverfront Park. Her presence enhances the cultural and historic atmosphere of the park and contributes to the city’s broader efforts to promote local heritage tourism.

Visitors often pair their stop at Kadie with trips to nearby attractions, such as the National Infantry Museum or the Riverwalk trail system, making Kadie a vital part of Columbus’s downtown experience.

The Story of BeBe – Kadie’s Calf

In 2023, another chapter was added to Kadie’s story with the discovery and return of her fiberglass calf, affectionately named BeBe. BeBe had been missing for nearly a decade after being separated from Kadie, but thanks to local enthusiasts and historic preservation efforts, BeBe was located and reunited with Kadie in Columbus.

The reunion of Kadie and BeBe has been celebrated by the community, adding sentimental value to the statues and deepening their status as cherished landmarks.

Summary

Kadie the Cow is more than just a large fiberglass sculpture; she is a symbol of Columbus, Georgia’s history, culture, and community spirit. From her origins as a dairy company advertisement to her current status as a treasured public art piece, Kadie represents the city’s industrial roots and ongoing pride in its unique local character.

Her relocation to Woodruff Riverfront Park ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy and celebrate this towering emblem of Columbus’s heritage. The story of Kadie and her calf BeBe enriches the narrative, making the statues a meaningful and enduring part of the city’s identity.