Imagine a penny so large that it towers 15 feet above the ground, weighs almost nine tons, and stands as a symbol of a community’s resilience and determination. Welcome to Woodruff, Wisconsin, home to the world’s biggest penny—a monument that embodies the heart and soul of a small town united in its quest to provide better healthcare. But how did a humble penny become a gigantic symbol of hope, and what inspired the creation of this colossal coin?
The story behind the world’s biggest penny is more than just a tale of a town and its oversized coin; it’s a narrative steeped in history, human kindness, and the power of collective action. The giant penny is not just a curiosity for tourists; it represents the life and legacy of Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb, a physician who dedicated her life to serving the people of northern Wisconsin. Through harsh winters, treacherous conditions, and the vast expanse of the rural landscape, Dr. Kate earned the nickname “Angel on Snowshoes” for her tireless efforts to reach her patients. But beyond her medical practice, Dr. Kate inspired an entire community to achieve what seemed impossible—a hospital funded by a million pennies collected by local students in a campaign known as the Million Penny Parade.
In this in-depth exploration, we’ll journey through the remarkable story of the world’s biggest penny, from its humble beginnings to its standing as a symbol of hope and perseverance. We’ll delve into the life of Dr. Kate, the birth of the Million Penny Parade, and the community’s unwavering commitment to building a much-needed hospital. Along the way, we’ll uncover the fascinating details of how this monumental penny was constructed and the legacy it continues to represent today.
Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of unique roadside attractions, or someone intrigued by tales of human spirit, this article will give you everything you need to know about the world’s biggest penny.
Quick Data Points: World’s Biggest Penny:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Woodruff, Wisconsin, USA |
| Height | 15 feet |
| Thickness | 12 inches |
| Weight | Nearly 9 tons |
| Year Built | 1954 |
| Purpose | To honor Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb and the Million Penny Parade |
| Material | Concrete |
| Significance | Symbolizes community spirit and the importance of healthcare access |
Who Was Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb?
The Early Life of Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb:
Before we dive into the creation of the world’s biggest penny, it’s essential to understand the woman who inspired it. Born in New York City in 1885, Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb grew up in a time when women were just beginning to break into the field of medicine. Her passion for helping others led her to study medicine, graduating from the Bellevue Hospital Medical College in New York in 1913. After marrying her husband, who was also a doctor, they moved to northern Wisconsin in 1931, seeking the therapeutic benefits of the clean country air for her husband’s health.
Dr. Kate quickly became a beloved figure in the community. Known for her unyielding dedication, she would travel hundreds of miles to reach patients in need, often through the harshest winter conditions. She became known as the “Angel on Snowshoes” for her tireless efforts to reach even the most isolated homes.
Dr. Kate’s Vision for Healthcare in Northern Wisconsin:
As the population in the northern Wisconsin region grew, so did the need for medical facilities. The nearest hospitals were far away, making it difficult for residents to receive timely care. Dr. Kate recognized the need for a local hospital and began advocating for its creation. However, raising funds in a small, rural community was no easy task. Despite the challenges, Dr. Kate was determined to make her vision a reality.
The Birth of the Million Penny Parade:
In 1949, Dr. Kate launched a fundraising campaign to build a new hospital. However, progress was slow, and it seemed unlikely that they would reach their goal. That’s when an unexpected source came to the rescue: a local high school geometry class. The students were learning about the concept of a million and decided to put their knowledge to practical use. They set out to collect one million pennies—$10,000—to donate to the hospital fund. The students dubbed their initiative the Million Penny Parade.
The Role of the Geometry Class and the Community:
The Million Penny Parade began as a small project, but it quickly gained momentum. The students wrote letters to local businesses, organizations, and even celebrities, asking for donations. Their efforts caught the attention of local media, and soon the campaign was featured on the national stage. Dr. Kate was invited to appear on the popular television show “This Is Your Life,” where her story touched the hearts of viewers across the country.
Pennies began pouring in from all over the United States. The Woodruff post office was inundated with sacks of pennies, and the campaign ultimately raised over $105,000—far exceeding the initial goal. This incredible outpouring of support allowed construction on the hospital to begin in 1952, with the Lakeland Memorial Hospital officially opening its doors in 1954.
The Construction of the World’s Biggest Penny:
Why Build a Giant Penny?
The idea to create a giant penny as a monument to the Million Penny Parade was both symbolic and practical. The penny represented the unity and collective effort of the community and the broader public in making Dr. Kate’s dream a reality. The decision to build a giant penny also ensured that the story of the Million Penny Parade would not be forgotten.
Designing the Giant Penny:
Designing a 15-foot-tall penny was no small task. The team behind the project wanted to ensure that the penny was an accurate representation of a real coin, albeit on a much larger scale. They paid close attention to the details, ensuring that every feature of the penny, from Abraham Lincoln’s profile to the inscriptions, was faithfully recreated.
The penny was constructed out of concrete, chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the harsh Wisconsin winters. The final product was a massive, 12-inch-thick coin weighing nearly nine tons. It was erected just a few blocks from the newly opened Lakeland Memorial Hospital, standing as a permanent tribute to Dr. Kate and the community that rallied behind her.
Unveiling the World’s Biggest Penny:
The giant penny was unveiled in 1954, just months after the hospital opened. The event was attended by local residents, dignitaries, and of course, Dr. Kate herself. The penny quickly became a local landmark, drawing visitors from near and far who were eager to see the enormous coin and learn about the remarkable story behind it.
The Legacy of Dr. Kate and the Giant Penny:
Dr. Kate’s Continued Impact on Healthcare:
Dr. Kate continued to practice medicine in northern Wisconsin until her death in 1956. Her legacy, however, lives on in the community she served so faithfully. The Lakeland Memorial Hospital, which was renamed the Howard Young Medical Center, continues to provide healthcare services to the region, fulfilling Dr. Kate’s vision.
The Role of the Dr. Kate Museum:
In addition to the giant penny, Dr. Kate’s legacy is preserved at the Dr. Kate Museum, located in her former office. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into Dr. Kate’s life and work, showcasing her medical equipment, personal belongings, and memorabilia from the Million Penny Parade. The museum serves as a reminder of the impact that one determined individual can have on an entire community.
The Cultural and Historical Significance of the Giant Penny:
The world’s biggest penny is more than just a roadside attraction; it is a symbol of the power of collective action and the importance of community spirit. It represents a time when a small town came together to achieve something extraordinary, and it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb.
Modern-Day Visits to the World’s Biggest Penny:
Today, visitors to Woodruff can see the giant penny up close and explore the rich history behind it. The penny is a popular stop for tourists traveling through northern Wisconsin, offering a unique photo opportunity and a chance to learn about a fascinating chapter in American history.
The Million Penny Parade: A Closer Look:
How the Million Penny Parade Captured the Nation’s Imagination:
The Million Penny Parade wasn’t just a local fundraising effort; it became a national phenomenon. Media coverage of the campaign helped spread the word far beyond the borders of Woodruff, and soon people from all over the country were sending in their pennies. The campaign resonated with people because it demonstrated how small contributions could add up to something significant. It was a tangible example of how every penny counts—literally and figuratively.
The Logistics of Collecting a Million Pennies:
Collecting a million pennies was no easy feat. The logistics of managing such a large quantity of coins required careful planning and organization. The students and volunteers who spearheaded the campaign set up collection points throughout the community and coordinated with the post office to handle the influx of mail. They also had to sort and count the pennies—a task that took countless hours of work.
The Impact of the Million Penny Parade on the Community:
The success of the Million Penny Parade had a profound impact on the Woodruff community. Not only did it provide the necessary funds to build a much-needed hospital, but it also brought the community closer together. The campaign fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among the residents, who saw firsthand what they could achieve when they worked together toward a common goal.
Lessons Learned from the Million Penny Parade:
The Million Penny Parade offers several valuable lessons that are still relevant today. It shows the importance of grassroots efforts and community involvement in achieving big goals. It also highlights the power of perseverance and determination—qualities embodied by Dr. Kate and the students who led the campaign. Finally, the Million Penny Parade serves as a reminder that even the smallest contributions can make a significant difference.
Exploring Other Giant Coins and Monuments:
Giant Coins Around the World:
While the world’s biggest penny in Woodruff is unique, it’s not the only giant coin in the world. Across the globe, there are several other large coins that have been created as monuments or attractions. For example, Canada is home to the “Big Nickel,” a 30-foot-tall replica of a Canadian nickel in Sudbury, Ontario. These giant coins serve as landmarks and symbols of local pride, much like the giant penny in Wisconsin.
Comparing the World’s Biggest Penny to Other Giant Coins:
When comparing the world’s biggest penny to other giant coins, several factors come into play, including size, material, and purpose. The giant penny in Woodruff stands out not only because of its size but also because of the powerful story behind it. While other giant coins may be larger or made from different materials, the world’s biggest penny holds a special place in history due to its connection to Dr. Kate and the Million Penny Parade.
Why Are Giant Coins So Popular?
Giant coins have become popular attractions for a variety of reasons. They often serve as symbols of local culture or history, and they provide unique photo opportunities for visitors. Additionally, giant coins can be a source of community pride, as they represent the achievements or values of the area where they are located. The world’s biggest penny, for example, is a source of pride for the residents of Woodruff, as it commemorates their successful effort to build a hospital.
FAQs About the World’s Biggest Penny:
1. Where is the world’s biggest penny located?
The world’s biggest penny is located in Woodruff, Wisconsin, USA. It stands near the site of the Lakeland Memorial Hospital, which was built thanks to the Million Penny Parade.
2. How big is the world’s biggest penny?
The penny is 15 feet tall, 12 inches thick, and weighs nearly nine tons.
3. Who was Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb?
Dr. Kate was a physician who served the people of northern Wisconsin. She was instrumental in the effort to build a hospital in the area and inspired the Million Penny Parade.
4. What was the Million Penny Parade?
The Million Penny Parade was a fundraising campaign led by local students to collect one million pennies ($10,000) to help fund the construction of a hospital in Woodruff, Wisconsin.
5. How much money did the Million Penny Parade raise?
The Million Penny Parade initially raised $10,000 in pennies, but the campaign ultimately raised over $105,000 in total donations.
6. When was the world’s biggest penny built?
The giant penny was built in 1954, shortly after the Lakeland Memorial Hospital opened.
7. What is the Dr. Kate Museum?
The Dr. Kate Museum is located in Woodruff, Wisconsin, in Dr. Kate’s former office. It showcases her life, work, and the story of the Million Penny Parade.
8. Can visitors see the world’s biggest penny?
Yes, the world’s biggest penny is a public monument, and visitors can see it up close in Woodruff, Wisconsin.
9. Why was the giant penny created?
The giant penny was created as a tribute to Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb and the Million Penny Parade, symbolizing the community’s effort to build a hospital.
10. Are there other giant coins in the world?
Yes, there are other giant coins around the world, such as the “Big Nickel” in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.
Conclusion:
The world’s biggest penny is more than just a giant coin; it’s a symbol of hope, perseverance, and community spirit. The story of Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb and the Million Penny Parade is a testament to what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause. This monumental penny stands as a reminder of the power of collective action and the lasting impact that one person’s dedication can have on an entire community.
Whether you’re visiting Woodruff, Wisconsin, to see the giant penny in person, or you’re simply intrigued by the story behind it, the world’s biggest penny is a fascinating piece of history worth exploring. As you look up at the towering coin, remember the countless pennies that were collected to build a hospital and the lives that were changed as a result. The world’s biggest penny is a true testament to the fact that even the smallest contributions can make a monumental difference.