This is your chance to own a special piece of Duke University and Durham history. See below for info on Mayor Grabarch.

This stunning bronze sculpture commissioned by Duke University for their Founders Society, is a must-have for any art collector or Duke fan or alumni. The intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship of this piece make it a true masterpiece.

The sculpture is made of high-quality bronze and is ideal for display in your home, office, or any other space where you want to showcase your love for Duke and appreciation for fine art.

Historical Note: The Founders Society was created in 1980 to honor individuals, corporations, foundations, and organizations whose gifts of endowment have strengthened and ensured continuing excellence for Duke University. Founders Society members are honored by the University: through recognition at a special presentation during Founders' Day Weekend; through invitations to special events and programs relating to the initiatives they support; through the Founders' Society banquet; and with the presentation of a replica The Sower statue. Numbering 193 at its inception in 1980 membership reached more than 1550 by 1995. The Founders' Society ended in 2004.

This sculpture was given to Marion and Wendell Grabarch. Robert Wensell "Wense" Grabarek (May 21, 1919 – December 15, 2019)[1][2][3] served as mayor of Durham, North Carolina from 1963 to 1971. Greeted upon entering office with mass civil rights demonstrations, Grabarek was credited with striking a tone of moderation. He established the "Durham Interim Committee," composed of two black and nine white members, with a mandate to "resolve and reconcile" racial differences. Over the next few months, segregation ended at most of Durham's restaurants, hotels and movie theaters, swimming pools, libraries, the chamber of commerce, and the Jaycees. Grabarek also served on the Durham City Council from 1957 to 1961.[4]

Grabarek was born in Luzerne, Pennsylvania. He served in the United States Army during World War II. He graduated from Benjamin Franklin University and worked as an accountant. Grabarek, his wife, and family moved to Durham, North Carolina in the 1950s.[1][5] Source: Wikipedia