Residents in Temple may notice two inspiring new bronze statues recently installed in local parks—gifts to the community from the Rotary Club of Temple-South.
At South Rotary Park on Lone Star Trail, visitors are greeted by a statue symbolizing patriotism and service: a boy climbs a rock while holding an American flag, reaching upward as a girl extends her hand from below.
The second statue, located at the Accessible Playground on South Fifth Street, captures the joy of childhood. It features three children dancing in a circle with arms outstretched, a symbol of playfulness and community connection.
Both statues were erected in honor of the late William “Bill” Jones III, a dedicated Rotarian and former Temple mayor. Jones was instrumental in running the club’s long-standing Flag Program, which began in 1999. Through this program, Temple residents can subscribe to have American flags placed in their yards on national holidays such as Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Patriot Day (September 11), and Veterans Day.
The Rotary Club previously gifted another bronze statue to South Rotary Park—a boy reading a book on a bench—which has become a beloved feature of the park and is highlighted on the City of Temple’s website.
According to Doug Smith, past president of the club and past governor of District 5870, the new statues were made possible through collaboration with the City of Temple and funding support from a Rotary District Assistance Program grant. Each piece cost approximately $6,000.
“These additions are reminders of what we stand for: service, fellowship, and making our community a better place for generations to come,” the club shared on Facebook when announcing the installations.
The statues serve not only as works of art but also as lasting tributes to service, patriotism, and the Rotary spirit in action.