Jenn Bradshaw
County Reporter
Everyone has seen Al, the lawn jockey? He lives on Main Street in Warsaw, in front of Alice Pethel’s house and has become a Warsaw icon as he is almost always attired in seasonally themed costumes.
“When I repainted him, his face came out looking very white, almost albino. That’s how he got the name, Al,” Pethel said.
Pethel has been dressing Al since moving to Warsaw in 2017.
“I started just playing around a little bit, then got more into it, then I started ordering costumes for him,” she said! “Now in my attic, I have a whole alcove dedicated to his costumes, hats and accessories. I must have 15 or more complete outfits for him. November is a busy month for Al. There is voting, Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving,” stated Pethel.
Al’s costumes are not easy to put on. With one arm straight out holding an iron ring, and the other folded back, most of his attire must be pinned on. The wind also poses a challenge.
“People said his outfits would be stolen, but the only thing that has ever been taken was when I had him dressed for a day at the lake, and somebody took the floating ring from around the base.” Pethel said.
Lawn jockeys were originally a welcoming symbol to guests and provided a place to tie a horse.
It is not certain how long Al has resided in Warsaw, though the house itself dates back to 1933.
As the city of Warsaw moves forward with the replacement of old water lines, Al’s position on the sidewalk in front of Pethel’s home is in jeopardy.
“Technically, Al is not on my property, but the city’s.” said Pethel. “They have said he will have to come down when they put in the new water line. I’m really concerned. They said they would move him anywhere onto my property, but I just don’t know where else I would want him,” Pethel said. “I have thought of getting a petition going to save him. When the time comes, I might even chain myself to him. I could get some friends to come relieve me. I really hope they can just leave Al be.”
