METROPOLIS, IL — Metropolis, Illinois, honored its unique connection to Superman on Tuesday as Mayor Gregg Jeffords read an official city proclamation at the iconic Superman Statue, celebrating 54 years since DC Comics officially designated the small southern Illinois city as the home of the Man of Steel.
The proclamation declared January 21 “Home of Superman Recognition Day,” recognizing the history, legacy, and global impact of Superman’s connection to Metropolis.
Jeffords delivered the proclamation at the 15-foot bronze Superman Statue in Superman Square, a landmark that has drawn visitors from around the world since its dedication in 1993. The statue depicts Superman in his classic pose, fists on hips, cape billowing behind him.
“Moments like this remind us how unique Metropolis truly is — a small town with a big hero and an even bigger heart,” organizers said in a statement following the ceremony.
The designation dates back to January 21, 1972, when DC Comics officially recognized Metropolis as Superman’s hometown. The decision came after city officials lobbied the comic book publisher, noting that their community of approximately 6,500 residents shared its name with the fictional city where Clark Kent works as a reporter at the Daily Planet.
Since receiving the designation, Metropolis has embraced its connection to the superhero. The city hosts an annual Superman Celebration each June, drawing thousands of fans to the community located along the Ohio River in southern Illinois. The festival features cosplay contests, celebrity guests, vendors, and activities centered around Superman and DC Comics.
In addition to the statue, Metropolis features Superman-themed attractions including the Super Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of Superman memorabilia in the world. The museum displays vintage comic books, movie props, costumes, and rare collectibles spanning Superman’s 88-year history.
Downtown businesses have incorporated Superman imagery into their storefronts, and the city’s water tower is painted to resemble the Daily Planet globe. Street signs throughout Metropolis reference Superman characters and locations.
The city’s connection to Superman has provided economic benefits through tourism. Visitors travel to Metropolis year-round to photograph the statue and explore Superman-related sites. The annual celebration generates significant revenue for local businesses and hotels.
Metropolis has maintained its relationship with DC Comics and Warner Bros. through licensing agreements that allow the city to use Superman’s likeness for civic purposes and tourism promotion.
The proclamation event drew residents and Superman enthusiasts to Superman Square on Tuesday despite winter weather. Attendees expressed appreciation for the mayor’s recognition of the city’s distinctive heritage.
“We’re proud to keep the legacy of Superman alive,” organizers stated.
Metropolis continues to update and expand its Superman attractions. The city has discussed potential additions to the Superman Square area and continues planning for future Superman Celebration events.
The designation has made Metropolis a pilgrimage site for Superman fans worldwide, with visitors frequently describing the experience of seeing the statue and exploring the city as meaningful connections to the character they grew up reading about and watching on screen.
