Butler Park and Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial, Austin

Butler Park in Austin, is a picturesque recreational area with a rich history and a significant memorial that celebrates the life of a legendary musician. The land for this park was generously donated to the city in 1941 by the heirs of Michael Butler, a 19th-century businessman. Situated on the south bank of Lady Bird Lake, Butler Park offers stunning views of downtown Austin and its towering skyscrapers, creating a beautiful juxtaposition of natural beauty and urban development.

One of the most notable features of Butler Park is the Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial Statue. This realistic statue honors the legendary guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan, a native Texan whose musical prowess left an indelible mark on the blues genre. The statue, a popular tourist attraction, was erected in 1993 at Auditorium Shores on Lady Bird Lake, a location that holds historical significance as it hosted numerous concerts by Vaughan.

The bronze statue, crafted by American sculptor Ralph Helmick, was unveiled in 1994, four years after Vaughan's untimely death. The tragic helicopter crash in 1990 that claimed his life occurred shortly after a concert in Wisconsin as he was traveling to Chicago.

The statue captures Vaughan's iconic image, featuring him in his customary poncho, straight-brimmed hat, western-cut boots, and holding one of his signature electric guitars, often initialed with "SRV." A unique aspect of the statue is its metal shadow, which casts a different image of Vaughan playing his guitar, adding depth and dimension to the memorial.

The statue, often adorned with flowers and gifts from admirers, stands as a poignant reminder of Vaughan's contributions to music and his deep connection with the city of Austin.