A public art sculpture that once was nestled in the woods in Muskoka has allegedly been stolen. The Town of Bracebridge says Chester the Bear, who lives along the Woodchester Storybook Trail, has been taken. Officials say they were notified Chester was missing and the chain that was used to secure the sculpture to his spot looks to have been cut. Artist Seth Huggins of Precision Carvings carved the sculpture during the Bracebridge 150 Community Celebration and Showcase early last summer, who then donated it to the town. The sculpture is of the bear holding the Silver Bridge, a well-known landmark in the town. “150” is carved at the base of the sculpture to commemorate the milestone. It’s around 56 inches and weighs roughly 175 pounds. The town held a naming contest at the time and Chester was the most popular choice. Chester lives in the Municipal Office for hibernation during winter and hangs out on the trail during the warmer months. The trail features eight storybook panels and a scenic lookout over Muskoka River. “Since his arrival on the Storybook Trail, Chester has become a popular stop for families and visitors enjoying the trail and its local story,” a spokesperson for the town says. “His disappearance is particularly disappointing given the community connection to the sculpture and the generosity that brought him to the trail.” Anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity in the area, has video footage or any information about the bear’s whereabouts is asked to contact OPP or Crime Stoppers.
