'Jersey Joe' Statue To Be Unveiled In Camden County Saturday

An eight-foot tall statue honoring South Jersey native and boxing legend Arnold "Jersey Joe Walcott" Cream will be revealed to the public this weekend.

The Camden County Board of Commissioners and the Camden County Historical Society will unveil that statue that will sit along the Camden Waterfront at the Wiggins Park Promenade at 1 p.m. Saturday, officials announced.

The unveiling follows a parade that begins at The Pub, 7600 Kaighn Avenue in Pennsauken, at noon. It concludes with a community concert and celebration.

“‘Jersey Joe’s’ legacy in the boxing ring speaks for itself and his record of public service to the area is admirable to say the least,” Camden Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli said. “We’re proud to honor this hometown legend with a permanent statue in his native Camden.”

"Jersey Joe" was the heavyweight champion of the world from 1951-52. At the time, he was the oldest man to hold the title, at the age of 37. George Foreman broke that record when he won the title at the age of 45 in 1994. Walcott's career spanned 23 years, from 1930-53.

After retiring from boxing, Walcott went into acting. He played small parts in a few movies and television shows. After that, he turned to politics. He became the first African American elected Sheriff of Camden County, a post he held from 1971-74. From 1975 to 1984, he was the chairman of the New Jersey State Athletic Commission.

Local sculptor Carl LeVotch created the statue. His design includes an eight-foot bronze figure sculpture with two bronze high relief sculptures, and a bronze replica of The Champion's ring belt.

These works of art will be affixed to a pedestal/base, and the entire monument will be placed permanently on the promenade at Wiggins Park.

The Camden County Historical Society continues to raise money for the project. More information about the statue, fundraising, and Jersey Joe himself can be found by visiting https://www.camdencounty.com/jerseyjoe.