This quirky tradition started with a simple pair of cat sculptures around the year 1900 and eventually turned into a beloved town tradition that heralds cat lovers from around the world.
Placed in positions that range from realistic to amusing, cats can be seen stalking the rooftops, prowling the eaves, and resting atop the chimneys of buildings throughout town. The provincial tradition really kicked up dust when sculptor Jonathan Nedwick was commissioned to add to the small collection of cat sculptures. Once Nedwick placed his creations, local businesses followed suit with feline creatures of their own.
At last check, there were 22 official cat sculptures around town, though the number seems to change every time a cat is stolen or a new one is added. Local businesses even offer maps of the “York Cat Walk” for feline friends who wish to find all twenty-two.