Frank Sinatra circa 1955 in Capitol Studios

One of the most famous Hoboken natives, Frank Sinatra, received his own six-foot-tall bronze statue on December 12, on what would have been the singer’s 106th birthday. The legendary personality and entertainer is depicted in a three-piece suit leaning against a flickering lamp post with his hat tilted to one side. The confident and charismatic look was a trademark of Sinatra’s and the singer’s own daughter, Tina, stated that the statue is of a strong likeness to her father. The statue was designed by Carolyn D. Palmer. 

Hoboken Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla said at the unveiling ceremony, “It is truly a great honor to unveil this ode to Hoboken’s own Frank Sinatra. This will not only memorialize him, but also the impact he has had on the city of Hoboken, its residents, and American society. When visitors take photos or tip their hats, I hope this statue inspires them to follow their passion and work hard until they turn their dreams into reality, just like he did.”

The monument is located at Sinatra Park along the Hoboken waterfront, a huge draw for residents and visitors alike. The unveiling also included remarks and performances by New York tenor Christopher Macchio and the Sinatra School of the Arts, Saturday Night Live alum Joe Piscopo, Tina Sinatra, Councilman Michael Russo, and sculptor Carolyn Palmer. 

Palmer’s other celebrity bronze sculptures include comedian Lucille Ball in her hometown of Celeron, N.Y., and Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt in Hyde Park, N.Y.