ALONG THE BANKS OF THE CHARLES RIVER — The family of David G. Mugar, who along with the late Boston Pops maestro Arthur Fiedler transformed Boston’s July Fourth concert into an internationally recognized event, unveiled a statue in Mr. Mugar’s honor.

The statue is along the Charles River at the Esplanade, where Mr. Mugar oversaw the annual televised concert and fireworks for produced the Fourth of July on the Esplanade for 43 years before stepping down after the 2016 concert.

Mr. Mugar, a noted Boston businessman and philanthropist, died on January 25, 2022. He was 82.

The statue honoring Mr. Mugar was paid for with private funds, but it’s location was approved by the state. His children and grandchildren, extended family along with longtime collaborators and friends attended the small, private ceremony.

All photos by Bill Brett