Why is there a sign in Uptown Charlotte pointing to Edgar, Wisconsin? 

Tucked among Uptown’s sky-rises and cultural centers, you’ll find The Green, a 1.5-acre park adjacent to St. Peter’s Catholic Church. Filled with fountains and grassy areas, The Green is a favorite spot for Uptown workers on their lunch breaks and those just looking for a serene spot away from the city’s bustle.

Traveling public sculptures are often showcased in the garden, including an exhibition by famed French artist Niki de Saint Phalle that brought five large sculptures there in 2011. But overall the park’s theme is international literature. Bronze books are among the most noted modern sculptures in the garden and you’ll find quotes from well-known authors throughout its verdant space.

But perhaps the most whimsical nods to literature are the direction signs throughout The Green that point to actual cities and, when combined, make the names of authors. (ie: Edgar, Wisconsin and Allan, Saskatchewan and Poe, Alberta create Edgar Allan Poe)

Visit The Green

WHAT: A 1.5-acre park in Uptown Charlotte

WHERE: 400 S. Tryon St.

COST: Free

PRO TIP: Enjoying the art in this park? The Green is just across the street from the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and The Mint Museum if you’d like to see more of the city’s top art offerings.

This story comes from Sarah Crosland’s book “Secret Charlotte: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure,” which you can buy on Amazon here or at local shops like Park Road Books and Paper Skyscraper. It’s a great read for anyone who loves Charlotte — and we’re not just saying that because she’s our former boss.

Photo: Sallie Funderburk

This story was originally published August 22, 2017 at 9:36 PM with the headline "Why is there a sign in Uptown Charlotte pointing to Edgar, Wisconsin? ."