History of the Norfolk Mermaids

If South Carolina has an official drink of milk and tea or Utah's astronomical symbol is the honeycomb cluster, nestled inside the constellation Cancer, and the anise-shaped biscochito is the symbolic image of the state of New Mexico, the Little Mermaid has been a signature symbol of Norfolk City since 2002.

The idea of the “Mermaid Parade” arose in 1999 and was executed by the local bronze sculptor Kevin Gallup. Locally mass-produced 130 mermaids for local businesses, artists and homeowners to sponsor and decorate. Mermaids have adorned the city of Norfolk for twenty years now. Through a public-private partnership, the Norfolk community organized a large event. It was a great success. Today, statues of mermaids are found all over the city, downtown and many surrounding areas. Some are old manufactured models, some are recently created. They are placed in front of businesses, schools, hospitals, and landlords' yards.

Thanks to the Norfolk Sisters Cities Association and other special events, these mermaids are famous around the world. Some had to be completely redone due to damage by the elements or unfortunately by vandals. One thing has remained since they appeared: they are truly loved by the young and old, tourists and residents.