BUTTE — Five of eight small, bronze gargoyles meant as “protectors” of a new parking garage in Butte have been stolen. Butte-Silver Bow officials are asking for help to identify those responsible.
City officials say the gargoyles were attached to benches outside the new garage as “protectors of the building and all of the occupants,” and to discourage people from sleeping or skateboarding on the benches.
One gargoyle was recently removed because it was not properly attached. Parking officials plan to remove the remaining two so they are not stolen. They cost about $160 each.
City-county parking enforcement supervisor Butch Harrington said Wednesday the gargoyles were probably taken over the weekend.
County officials say the 4-inch- (10-centimeter-) tall gargoyles were meant to resemble a Gaelic gargoyle, reflecting Butte’s Irish history.
The garage opened last month.