O. Henry's Book, Greensboro

As you stroll along North Elm Street your attention may be drawn to a remarkable monument honoring the renowned writer William Sydney Porter, better known as O. Henry. This monument takes the form of a massive stone book, serving as a tribute to O. Henry's literary legacy and his deep connection to Greensboro, where he spent a significant portion of his life. Created by artist Maria J. Kirby-Smith and unveiled in 1985, the monument showcases two of O. Henry's beloved short stories, "The Gift of the Magi" and "The Ransom of Red Chief," depicted within its pages.

One striking feature of the monument is the sculpture of a young boy peering out from between the pages, bringing to life the imaginative worlds created by O. Henry's storytelling. Just a few steps away from the stone book, visitors can discover a life-size statue of O. Henry himself, accompanied by his beloved dog. This charming statue offers a glimpse into the author's persona and his affection for his loyal companion, further enriching the experience of exploring O. Henry's literary heritage in Greensboro.