The Eagle has landed, back at Riverside Park

A 21-month restoration project has ended, and a large metal eagle is now back on its familiar roost in La Crosse’s Riverside Park.

The Elmer Petersen eagle, first brought to the riverfront in the 1980’s, was re-installed during the noon hour on Wednesday as onlookers watched and took pictures. The metallic tree-trunk pedestal was erected first, and then the eagle, holding a fish in its talons, was lifted by crane to the top of the trunk.

The sculpture was taken down in September of 2020 for repairs, and some experts thought the job would be finished by the following spring.

The installation was completed in time for La Crosse’s Riverfest to open on Thursday. Tents and food vendors have already set up in Riverside Park, in advance of the five-day 4th of July festival.