Monument to the Pioneer Women of Kansas -- Topeka KS
N 39° 02.875 W 095° 40.751
15S E 268143 N 4325510
This idealized vision of a Kansas Pioneer Woman and her family (including their faithful dog) stands proudly at the southwest cormer of the State Capitol grounds in downtown Topeka KS.
Waymark Code: WMGV9T
Location: Kansas, United States
Date Posted: 04/11/2013
Views: 9
This evocative bronze by sculptor Merrill Gage captures the essential toughness and tenderness of the ideal of the Kansas Pioneer woman. A proud, conficent woman site, cradling her infant in her left hand while wrapping her right had across the shoulders of her pre-adolescent son, who is studying a book. Across her lap, a rifle rests. At her feet, the family dog dozes, but with one eye open, also maintianing watch over the family.
There are several intertwined themes here: The dedication of the pionner woman to having children, protecting them, and educating them as they grow up. At the same time, she is vigilant, responsible, confident, courageous. and ready to defend her family from any predators (human or animal) that might jeopardize her family's safety.
Is she a single parent on the plains? Is her husband away, or is he dead? Either way, you get the sense from the look on her face that not only will she (and her family) survive, they will thrive.
Blasters found it interesting that the dog is dozing but Mom is wide awake and on guard. (Duh -- it's STILL the reality for Mothers everywhere!)
Breed: Mutt -- the strongest and hardiest of all :)
Date Built: 1937
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