Jeanne Watson, member of the Niles Public Arts Commission, has started a GoFundMe campaign for the installation of a sculpture at the Niles District Library in memory of the late Francis and Jennie Plym.

The bronze sculpture, entitled “Generations” is nine feet tall and was created by world-renowned artist Tuck Langland. It would be placed in front of the Niles District Library at the corner of East Main and North Seventh Streets.

“They (the Plyms) were wonderful people that did so much for our city,” Watson said. “I thought how wonderful it would be to give something back to them to thank them for all that they’ve done.”

In 1906, Francis Plym moved his sheet metal fabricating shop, known as Kawneer, from Kansas to Niles. He invented a system that allowed skyscrapers to have large structural glass openings and the Kawneer business became extremely successful.

In addition to running a prosperous business, Watson said the Plyms were known for their philanthropy, including providing Niles with its hospital and library.

Watson said “Generations,” which features a man lifting a child into the air, represents one generation lifting another. She said it would be a fitting memorial to the Plyms, which continue to give back to Niles today through a family foundation.

“It would be absolutely perfect for the library,” Watson said.

The price of the sculpture is $65,000. Installation would be an additional $10,000.

People can donate by visiting the online funding site at https://www.gofundme.com/2am5xhbf. There is no expiration date for the GoFundMe campaign.

In addition to honoring the Plyms, placing the sculpture is part of a larger plan by the Public Arts Commission to turn Niles into a destination for art tourism.

Future plans include installing historically significant sculptures throughout Riverfront Park in downtown Niles.