Iconic Elephant in Central New York Field is No More

An iconic landmark in Central New York is no more.

In a field in West Winfield a famous elephant has sat for years. It's the creation of local artist Elizabeth Schoomaker, who spent three months creating the sculpture using 40 truckloads of wild grapevines. She worked in the rain, heat, cold, and wind building it in her driveway.

Over the years, Schoomaker has repaired damage to the fragile elephant, from humans and Mother Nature. "My work was never intended to be sat on or climbed for photos to share on social media."

The sculpture was intended as a roadside attraction, welcoming all to stop and cross the bridge for a closer look, which many did.

Elephant Under Milky Way

Local photographer Todd Walker captured the stunning sculpture under the stars in what looks more like a painting than a photograph.

"I was near Plainfield, driving along a country road when I came across this sculpture. From a distance, I had to blink twice. It was definitely something I wasn’t expecting to see."

Final Year of the Elephant

This year was the elephant's last.

The storms that tore through Central New York on July 15 knocked the elephant on it's side, damaging it beyond repair.

Trudy Piscione is one of many who will miss the local landmark.

"She stood strong for many years.
She was visited, admired and adorned with flowers!
She posed for pictures with fans from near and far!
She was loved by many and she will be missed!"

Credit - Trudy Piscione/Facebook