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Jack Benny Statue: A Tribute to Waukegan's Favorite Son
Visit the Jack Benny Statue in Waukegan, a tribute to the beloved comedian and his enduring connection to his hometown.
The Jack Benny Statue in Waukegan, Illinois, commemorates the legendary comedian who considered Waukegan his hometown. Located at the corner of Genesee and Clayton Streets, the statue captures Benny's essence with a playful pose, inviting visitors to celebrate his wit and charm.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Jack Benny statue
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
W Clayton St &, N Genesee St, Waukegan, IL, 60085, US
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Getting There
Walking
The Jack Benny Statue is located at the southwest corner of Genesee and Clayton Streets in downtown Waukegan. If you are starting from the Waukegan Public Library, walk south on N Genesee St towards E Washington St. Turn left on W Clayton St and continue walking until you reach the intersection of W Clayton St and N Genesee St. The statue is located at this intersection.
Public Transport
If you are near the Genesee Theatre, take the Route 10 bus towards the Waukegan Metra Station. Get off at the stop at N Genesee St & W Clayton St. From there, walk east on W Clayton St to the intersection. The Jack Benny statue is at this intersection. A single ride on Pace bus is $1.75.
Local tips
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Visit the Genesee Theatre across the street from the statue, a beautifully restored movie palace from the 1920s.
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Take a self-guided tour of other Jack Benny-related sites in Waukegan, including his childhood home and Jack Benny Middle School.
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Check out the Waukegan Historical Society for exhibits on Jack Benny, including his vaudeville trunk.
Discover more about Jack Benny statue
The Jack Benny Statue stands as a tribute to the comedian's enduring legacy and his deep connection to Waukegan. Born in Chicago as Benjamin Kubelsky, Jack Benny spent his formative years in Waukegan and always considered it his hometown. The statue, located at the intersection of W. Clayton St and N. Genesee St, is not just a landmark but a symbol of the city's vibrant arts scene.The bronze statue, created by sculptor Erik Blome, depicts Benny in a characteristic pose, with one hand on his cheek and his trademark violin under his arm. The base of the statue features various symbols and details from "The Jack Benny Program," including his fictional vault guarded by crocodiles, the melody line for "Love in Bloom" (his theme song), etchings of his glasses and the number 39 (his perpetual age), and depictions of his butler, Rochester, and talented tenors.The statue was dedicated in 2002 as part of a downtown revitalization project, with the cost largely covered by private donations, including a "Pennies for Benny" campaign involving local schoolchildren. The surrounding area is known as Jack Benny Plaza. Visitors can explore other Benny-related sites in Waukegan, including his childhood home, Jack Benny Middle School, and the Jack Benny Center for the Arts.
A brief summary to Jack Benny statue
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