Charleston's Mortar Man: Weird Wednesday

My attempt at photographing Mortar Man

Along Capitol Street in Charleston, WV there sits a mysterious little man.  Every day, people walk right past the Mortar Man, never even noticing he's there.  But, to those who DO know where to look, Mortar Man has become a local celebrity....and a local legend.

For years, mystery shrouded the tiny figure.  Located 12 feet above the ground, tucked into a corner of brick between two buildings, and measuring in at only 2 inches by 4 inches, its no wonder that so many people never noticed the Mortar Man.  For those who did know of the tiny little figure, now referred to as West Virginia's smallest piece of public art, stories abounded as to how the figure got there, who created him, and of course...WHY.  Was Mortar Man some sort of protector or guardian?  Was he a supernatural creature?  Or was he just someone's idea of a joke?

Turns out, the Mortar Man is the creation of local sculptor, P. Joseph Mullins, best known for work on the Veterans Memorial at the State Capitol Complex.  30 years ago, Mullins was working on the facade of a historic building.  During a lunch break, he took some leftover building materials and sculpted the little fella.  Apparently it took three years before a police officer noticed the figure and people started wondering what the heck was going on! 

Much clearer photo, by Craig Poole

Over the years, Mortar Man has become a favorite with both locals and tourists who have heard of the strange little figure.  When renovations to the building led to the removal of Mortar Man, people threw such a fit that he was replaced.  At one point, someone even tried to steal him!

Luckily, Mortar Man is still holding his ground on Capitol Street.  Go to #108 Capitol Street.  To the left of the building, between its facade and the neighboring building, look straight up about 12 feet.  He's hard to see, but if you're lucky, you'll catch a glimpse of this magical little piece of art history, right here in the Mountain State!

Links for more information:
Mortar Man Facebook
Atlas Obscura
WOWK Article by Craig Poole