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This 9’ tall bronze figure depicts prominent Los Angeles citizen Joseph Scott (1867-1958). So well recognized in the civic affairs of the area, he was given the title of “Mr. Los Angeles.” He is portrayed at about age 50, in an oratory stance, with right arm extended. The statue is located at the northeast corner of the courthouse facing Grand Avenue.

Scott, a native of England, left his homeland at age 22 because of religious discrimination, and settled briefly on the East Coast. After moving to Los Angeles, he studied law and was admitted to the bar. As a community leader, Scott was a member of many organizations including the Los Angeles School Board and Chamber of Commerce, and was a founder of the Southwest Museum. He was also a champion of his religious faith, receiving recognition for his services to numerous Catholic organizations.

In 1962, Carl Romanelli was commissioned by admirers of Scott to execute a statue. A fundraiser was held, but sufficient monies were not raised, and Romanelli never completed the plaster mold of the full-scale clay model he designed. Another sculptor, Cataldo Papaleo, altered some of Romanelli’s design and did the final casting. At the time of the unveiling in 1967, Romanelli declined to sign the work because of the changes that were made, and therefore his name appears only on the granite base he designed.

About the Artists: Carl Romanelli was born and raised in Los Angeles, the seventh generation in a lineage of sculptors. His father, Carlo Romanelli created The Helmsman statue for the Helms Bakery which now also resides in the County’s Collection. Carl Romanelli also created a likeness of Elvis Presley which stands outside the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel.

Cataldo Papaleo, who executed the statue, was the chief sculptor of El Monte’s Classic Bronze Corporation.

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