Rosalee Taylor Hume

The statue has been pictured in news photos, brochures and advertisements, but does anyone remember and credit its sculptress. When the statue was dedicated in 1998, its creator, Rosalee Taylor Hume, who lately seems to have bMost people in Indian River County are familiar with the statue of Paul Kroegel which stands on the bank of the Indian River across from Riverview Park looking out toward Pelican Island. In 1903, Mr. Kroegel was named the first Warden of Pelican Island, the very first National Refuge In the United States. een forgotten, was honored and a brass marker bearing her name was attached to the base. The marker has since disappeared.

Rosalee was very familiar with her subject. Her parents, Bessie and Charlie Taylor came to this area in 1912 and raised their family here. As a child, Rosalie knew the Paul Kroegel family. She grew to be a talented painter and gifted sculptor. Many of her sculptures and paintings dealt with Indians, who were still in the area when she was young. Her paintings also depicted local scenes.

Rosalee passed away in 2011. She was a Life Member of the Sebastian River Art Club, which she helped found. To fellow members who draw inspiration from her life and work, she will never be "The Forgotten Woman" and new members will always hear the story of Rosalee Taylor Hume.