Fountain Square Salon Baci Location

At Salon Baci, we blend modern style with historical inspiration. The Tyler Davidson Fountain, known as “The Genius of Water,” has been the square’s centerpiece since 1871. Its 438 streams of water inspire our creative flow.

Our view? Unmatched. As we work, you’ll see the bronze figures that represent water’s blessings. A farmer prays for rain. A woman offers water to an elderly man. These timeless scenes of humanity inspire our approach to beauty.

Why we chose the Fountain Square Location

The Origin of Cincinnati’s Fountain Square

• Inspiration and Design: The fountain’s design originated from a conversation in Munich in 1840 between Ferdinand von Miller, director of the Royal Bavarian Bronze Foundry, and artist August von Kreling. Over drinks, they discussed creating a fountain that extolled the “genius of water” without mythical creatures, which was a departure from traditional European fountain designs. Kreling sketched his ideas with a cigar stub on the table, depicting practical uses of water, such as a farmer asking for rain and a mother bathing her child. This sketch became the basis for the Genius of Water Fountain.

• Commission and Construction: After the death of his brother-in-law Tyler Davidson, Cincinnati businessman Henry Probasco sought a fitting memorial. He commissioned the fountain from the Royal Bavarian Bronze Foundry, finding Kreling’s design aligned with Cincinnati’s values. The fountain was cast in Europe and shipped to Cincinnati in sections.

Unique Features and Anecdotes

• The Genius of Water: The central figure, known as the Genius of Water, is a prominent female figure with water flowing from 438 holes in her palms. Below her are four human figures representing the practical uses of water, such as a man hoping for rain and a young woman offering water to an old man.

• Historical Events: The fountain has witnessed numerous events and celebrations. It was part of the opening credits of the television series WKRP in Cincinnati and has been a backdrop for many public gatherings and festivities.

• Cultural Significance: The fountain’s design and construction reflect Cincinnati’s strong German heritage, as it was created in Munich and resonates with the city’s immigrant roots. It stands as a tribute to the Ohio River’s importance in the city’s development.

• Notable Quotes: City Council member David Mann once remarked, “Whether in Paris or Spain, you won’t find a more beautiful fountain anywhere in the world. So we really should be proud of what’s been done here.”

These stories and features highlight the Tyler Davidson Fountain’s role not only as a piece of art but as a symbol of Cincinnati’s history, culture, and community values.

Interesting Facts – Did You Know?

• Fountain Square replaced a butcher’s market in 1871.
• The Tyler Davidson Fountain was a gift from Henry Probasco to the city.
• The square has been renovated several times, most recently in 2006, to remain the heart of downtown.
• The fountain was designed in Munich and shipped to Cincinnati in pieces.

Fountain Square Development and Changes

The square has undergone several renovations to maintain its status as the heart of Cincinnati. In 1971, the square was redesigned to improve traffic flow, which included moving the fountain slightly and enlarging the plaza. A major renovation in 2006 aimed to revitalize the area, making it a cultural and recreational hub. This renovation included moving the fountain to a more central location and updating the surrounding plaza to attract more visitors. 

The Tyler Davidson Fountain, dedicated on October 6, 1871, is a significant landmark in Cincinnati. It was designed to rival the great fountains of Europe, with a focus on glorifying the blessings of water. The fountain features a nine-foot-tall figure known as “The Genius of Water,” with streams flowing from her outstretched hands. The fountain also includes figures representing the practical uses and pleasures of water.

The fountain has been a backdrop for numerous cultural events and is a familiar sight to many, having appeared in the opening credits of the television series WKRP in Cincinnati

Today’s Modern Fountain Square

Today, Fountain Square is surrounded by a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, hotels, and offices. It hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and seasonal activities like ice skating. The square has become a restaurant and entertainment hub, featuring key businesses such as the Fifth Third Bank Headquarters, Macy’s, Inc., and the Great American Insurance Group Headquarters.

Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati hosts a diverse array of events throughout the year, catering to various interests and audiences. Here are some of the notable types of events that take place:

Unique Features and Community Activity

Fountain square continues to offer a rich contribution to the City’s community and entertainment.

Music and Entertainment

• Fountain Blues: Live blues music events powered by the Cincy Blues Society, featuring local bands and artists.
• Summer Jazz at the Square: A series of jazz performances programmed by Jamey Aebersold Jazz, showcasing local talent.
• Indie Friday: A platform for local indie musicians to perform, encouraging community engagement with the local music scene.
• Salsa on the Square: Dance events featuring salsa music and dance lessons, promoting cultural diversity and community participation.

Markets and Festivals

• Strauss Troy Market on the Square: A weekly market featuring local vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and artisanal goods.
• Seasonal Festivals: Various seasonal events, including holiday celebrations and themed festivals that bring together the community for food, music, and entertainment.

Community and Family Events

• Trivia Nights: Regular trivia competitions that encourage friendly competition among attendees.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Events like “The Rock & Roll Playhouse,” which introduces children to music through engaging performances.

Special Events and Celebrations

• Cultural Celebrations: Events celebrating different cultures, including food festivals and art fairs, which highlight the diversity of Cincinnati.
• Public Gatherings and Ceremonies: The square often serves as a venue for public speeches, community meetings, and other civic events.

Fountain Square is not just a gathering place but a vibrant hub of activity that fosters community spirit and cultural exchange, making it a vital part of Cincinnati’s social landscape.

The current Fountain Square in Cincinnati reflects its historical significance by maintaining its role as a central hub for civic, social, and commercial activities, much like it has been since its inception in 1871. Here are some ways in which the square continues to embody its historical importance:

At Salon Baci, we’re not just styling hair – we’re continuing a legacy of beauty and civic pride that’s as old as Fountain.

Book now. CALL US: (513 421-2224) or book online.

Can’t find a time? Call us. We’ll make it work, just like the city did when it moved the entire fountain in 1971 to improve traffic flow.

References

Fountain Square Research

https://www.artworkscincinnati.org/media/TYLER-DAVIDSON-FOUNTAIN-Art-Works

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyler_Davidson_Fountain

https://ohiomemory.ohiohistory.org/archives/5647

https://www.loc.gov/item/2016810649/

IMAGES:

Tyler Davidson Fountain/Wiki Images/by Derek Johnson/Public Domain CC

Image Source: Library of Congress / by Detroit Publishing Co/ https://www.loc.gov/resource/det.4a19270/

Tyler Davidson Fountain/Cincinnati Enquirerhttps://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2021/10/03/tyler-davidson-fountain-fountain-square-turns-150/5826673001/

Image Source: Library of Congress / by Detroit Publishing Co/ https://www.loc.gov/resource/det.4a19270/

Image Source: picryl.com/NY Public Library /CCO 1.0/ http://digitalcollections.nypl.org/ 

Research: Our research was fun and interesting. We used online search for stories and images and utilized AI in a more detailed search.