Thomas Fawick 

Nestled along the west bank of the Big Sioux River, Fawick Park awaits your discovery, conveniently situated off 2nd Ave between 10th and 11th streets. Dive into the past with a glance at the historical marker detailing the park's namesake, right near a replica of Michelangelo's Statue of David. If you can't make it to the park you can read the text from the marker here too:

"Thomas L. Fawick was born in Sioux Falls and attended school here through the fourth grade. His genius was soon revealed. He became an inventor, and in 1906, at the age of 17, Fawick built a rudimentary two-cylinder auto, the Silent Sioux.

Two years later Fawick incorporated his own motor car company. He assembled the nation's first four-door automobile, the right-hand-drive, four-cylinder, three-speed Fawick Flyer. In all, he produced eleven autos, the only motor cars ever built in Sioux Falls.

Fawick left Sioux Falls and became a multimillionaire. During his career he was granted over 200 patents for industrial clutches and transmissions, violins, sound systems, and golf club grips.

In 1971 he gave this reproduction of David to the city and Augustana College. The original David was created in 1504 at Florence, Italy, by sculptor Michelangelo. The statue depicts a young, confident David poised to lash out with his sling at the giant Goliath. The masterpiece has charmed viewers for centuries."

Thomas Fawick, a local philanthropist, donated a statue of David to the city, sparking a debate over its nudity and its placement in a high-traffic area. After some time, people warmed up to the artwork, and a location was chosen for David. Fawick Park was created to display the bronze cast replica of the Statue of David, but some felt the park was too small for both statues and, the discussion about where to place Moses continued for several years until it finally found a home on the Augustana campus in 1976. 

Fawick Park is a vibrant nod to the creativity and ingenuity of its namesake. Stroll along the scenic riverbank and soak in the lush surroundings—a perfect getaway from city life. As you wander through, you'll feel the enduring influence of Thomas Fawick, whose visionary spirit and legacy sparks ongoing innovation and creativity, reminding us of the magic of imagination and the value of community spirit.