On a poignant evening, hundreds gathered at Pease Park to pay tribute to Malin, the beloved wooden troll sculpture that was tragically destroyed in a fire last month. The precise cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
Attendees encircled the spot where Malin once stood, pouring water and placing vibrant flowers into her steel bowl, which had served as a means for park visitors to give back to the local wildlife.
Many participants donned t-shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Keep Calm and Troll On,” underscoring the community’s affection for the whimsical figure. Among those in attendance was Lynne Dobson, who expressed heartfelt sentiments about the loss. “All of us will miss Malin’s comforting presence in our favorite park,” she remarked. “We feel deep gratitude for everyone who helped create her and for all who appreciated her.” Dobson and her husband, Greg Wooldridge, were instrumental in funding the sculpture’s creation.
The memorial featured a variety of performances, including music from the band Wild Texas Rose, along with poignant speeches and poetry readings. Attendees were also given the opportunity to receive a portion of Malin’s ashes, which they could use for painting, further connecting them to the memory of the beloved troll.
Malin was crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo and completed in March 2024. While he has created approximately 187 troll sculptures across the U.S. and Europe, Malin held the distinction of being the only one in Texas. After standing proudly for more than two years, she met her untimely demise. In the aftermath, signs have been placed on nearby trees, appealing for information regarding the circumstances surrounding the fire.
