The City of Red Deer is kicking off Alberta Culture Days with the unveiling of an updated Francis the Pig “Ghost” statue today, (August 29) from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Central Spray and Play.
The bronze sculpture celebrates one of Red Deer’s most enduring legends, the tale of Francis, a pig who escaped a local slaughterhouse in 1990 and managed to evade capture for nearly five months.
Francis’ story began at C/A Meats in July 1990, when the 250-pound hog leapt over a wall, slipped through the sausage plant, and dashed into Red Deer’s parkland.
For months, the city buzzed with sightings as Francis rummaged through garbage cans, startled pedestrians on bike trails, and even fought off coyotes.
Media across Canada picked up the story, while school children and animal rights groups pleaded for Francis’ life to be spared if he were caught.
By late November, his tracks were discovered west of the city and after several tranquilizer darts and a prolonged chase, Francis was finally captured on November 29, 1990.
Sadly, his legendary escape came to an end just two days later when Francis died from peritonitis after one of the darts pierced his bowel.
Despite his short-lived return to captivity, Francis became a cultural icon.
He was nominated for Alberta’s Agricultural Hall of Fame and immortalized in literature, media, and eventually, sculpture.
In 1998, Red Deer’s Downtown Business Association commissioned a bronze “Ghost” statue by sculptor Danek Mozdzenski, depicting Francis mid-run.
The statue was later relocated to Central Spray and Play, where generations of residents and visitors continue to learn about the runaway pig.
After undergoing repairs and upgrades in 2023, Francis has now returned to his familiar spot.
The unveiling marks the start of a province-wide celebration of arts and culture, and Red Deer officials are inviting the public to attend the event and help keep Francis’ legendary tale alive.
**With information from the City of Red Deer
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