ELMIRA, N.Y. -- A historic piece of artwork has been returned home.

The American Girl, a statue of a famous racehorse, is now on display in Eldridge Park. The statue was built in the 1870s and is the only remaining piece from the original park.

It was vandalized in 1980, and broken into pieces.

On Wednesday, the 700 pound statue was placed in a permanent display. Park officials said this brings history to life.

"A pleasant version of our history back. We've had wars; we've had all sorts of economic problems and here is an oasis in the middle of Elmira, which represents the good part of our history,” said Joe Devita, Eldridge Park Carousel Preservation Society.

The display was designed to look similar to a 1870s stable.