Liverbird
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Liverbird is known all over the world as the symbol that represents Liverpool, the main city on Merseyside, England.
Two, famous, Liverbirds can seen at the top of the Liver buildings, they stand a massive 18 feet high. The origins of the Liverbird are said to go back to when King John gave Liverpool it's City Charter in 1207. Upon the Kings official seal was the eagle of St John and many agree that this is where it orignates.
In 1644, during the siege the Kings seal was misplaced and a copy was ordered, this was done but the bird was badly made and now resembled a cormorant.
Not wanting to have a symbol that was used all over the world the citizens of Liverpool decided to create it's own mythical icon, which is now known as the Liverbird. According to local legend if the birds were to fly from the Liver building the city of Liverpool would no longer exist.
The Liverbird is also synonymous with Liverpool Football Club who, in many guises, have used the symbol as part of their official crest, the bird has also been ornately used as part of former manager Bob Paisley's memorial, the Paisley Gateway. The huge success that the club has gained, both domestically and abroad, has meant the Liverbird being promoted and recognised worldwide.
