Sculptor Joseph Reginella creates fictional monuments that captivate New Yorkers

Joseph Reginella, a sculptor, has created fake monuments in New York City that celebrate fictional events. His latest piece honors a made-up character, Nathaniel Katz, who supposedly introduced rats to the city. Many people mistakenly believe these stories are true. Reginella has installed six similar statues in Battery Park over the past nine years, each commemorating imaginary events like the Brooklyn Bridge Elephant Stampede. He plans to display the Katz bust again in the spring, along with other monuments. Despite receiving criticism, Reginella's work has gained recognition and is featured in children's books and educational materials. He is considering ending the project due to space constraints in his studio and is currently working on what he calls his final piece.