What does the term “Pioneer Woman” bring to mind? In 1926, oil magnate E.W. Marland of Oklahoma posed this very question to seventeen renowned sculptors. His vision was to create a statue embodying the quintessential Pioneer Woman, a symbol of those who settled the American West. From these submissions, a winning design would be chosen and transformed into a grand monument.
Interestingly, only twelve sculptors, all men, participated in this ambitious project. Marland suggested that each depiction include a sunbonnet and a child, further shaping the artists’ interpretations. Once the twelve 3-foot models were completed, they embarked on a tour across twelve cities, allowing the public to vote for their favorite representation. Considering these sculptures were created by white men in the 1920s, the collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the era’s perception of the pioneer woman.
Here are the twelve sculptures presented for public consideration:
Adventurous Pioneer Woman Statue by F. Lynn Jenkins
Adventurous, sculpted by F. Lynn Jenkins, captures a sense of daring and exploration.
Faithful, by Arthur Lee, embodies the steadfastness and devotion often associated with pioneer women.
Heroic Pioneer Woman Statue by Mario Korbel
Heroic, a creation of Mario Korbel, portrays the courage and bravery inherent in the pioneer spirit.
Self Reliant, crafted by Alexander Stirling Calder, emphasizes the independence and resourcefulness of these women.
Detailed view of the Self Reliant Pioneer Woman Statue by Alexander Stirling Calder
A detail of Self Reliant highlights the strength and determination in her posture.
Determined Pioneer Woman Statue by Maurice Sterne
Determined, sculpted by Maurice Sterne, showcases the unwavering resolve of a pioneer woman facing challenges.
Confident Pioneer Woman Statue by Bryant Baker
Confident, Bryant Baker’s interpretation, exudes assurance and inner strength.
Close-up detail of the Confident Pioneer Woman Statue
A detail view of Confident reveals the serene yet powerful expression.
Trusting Pioneer Woman Statue by Jo Davidson
Trusting, by Jo Davidson, embodies faith and reliance on providence in the face of the unknown.
Challenging, Herman A. MacNeil’s sculpture, suggests the arduous journey and obstacles faced by pioneers.
Detailed view of the Challenging Pioneer Woman Statue by Herman A. MacNeil
A detail of Challenging emphasizes the physical demands of pioneer life.
Affectionate Pioneer Woman Statue by James E. Fraser
Affectionate, James E. Fraser’s contribution, highlights the nurturing and loving aspect of the pioneer woman.
Protective Pioneer Woman Statue by John Gregory
Protective, sculpted by John Gregory, embodies the fierce protectiveness of a mother safeguarding her child in a harsh environment.
Detail of Protective Pioneer Woman Statue showing mother and child
A detail from Protective focuses on the bond between mother and child, a core element of the pioneer family.
Sturdy, by Mahonri Young, represents the physical resilience and robust nature of pioneer women.
Fearless Pioneer Woman Statue by Wheeler Williams
Fearless, Wheeler Williams’ sculpture, captures the dauntless spirit and courage required to venture into the frontier.
While E.W. Marland personally favored Trusting, the public overwhelmingly chose Confident. Graciously accepting the popular vote, Marland commissioned Bryant Baker to create a full-size statue based on the “Confident” model.
In 1930, the monumental 27-foot bronze statue was unveiled in Ponca City, Oklahoma. Dedicated to all pioneer women of the United States, the inscription reads: “In appreciation of the heroic character of the women who braved the dangers and endured the hardships incident to daily life of the pioneer and homesteader in this country.” The dedication ceremony drew a crowd of forty thousand people, featuring a tribute to Oklahoma’s pioneers and a speech by the renowned Will Rogers.
Unveiling ceremony of the Pioneer Woman statue in Ponca City, Oklahoma in 1930
Today, the Pioneer Woman statue stands tall in Ponca City, a lasting reminder of the vital role women played in shaping the American West. It serves as a tribute to the strength, resilience, and diverse characteristics embodied by these women.
The Pioneer Woman statue in Ponca City, Oklahoma, standing as a landmark
Close up view of the Pioneer Woman Statue in Ponca City
Located at the Pioneer Woman Museum in Ponca City, Oklahoma, the statue welcomes visitors to reflect on the legacy of these remarkable women. For those interested in seeing the original models, they are on display at the nearby Marland Mansion and Estate, offering a complete experience of this historical and artistic project.
The geographical coordinates for those wishing to visit are 36.706981 -97.085595.
