Welcome to Maud Powell Plaza!
Maud was born here in Peru in 1867 on Bluff Street (where the 251 bridge currently stands). She began studying the violin in Aurora, IL and then continued studying for 4 years in Chicago. She had completed her training in Berlin. At the age of 18, Maud made her New York debut in 1885. Her first concert here in Peru was Feb 16, 1908. About 400 people made their way to the Turn Hall, through the worst snow storm and blizzard of many years. Maud was one of America's foremost pioneers in music. She performed for the soldiers in WWI and toured Europe, North America and South Africa. In 1920, Maud Powell died of a heart attack.
The statue was dedicated and unveiled on July 1, 1995 in this courtyard. A Maud Powell Music Festival has been held annually since its dedication. The monument celebrates her lifelong commitment to music and her successful struggle in breaking down the established barriers to women performing in the arts. While here, you can check out the statue and there is also a nice plaque about her on the brick wall.
Please be respectful of this area.