CASPER, Wyo. — A heroic-size monument memorializing the Pony Express by LDS sculptor Avard T. Fairbanks was unveiled at the site of the National Historic Trails Center here during the convention of the Oregon-California Trails Association on Thursday, Aug. 16.
The monument is a duplicate of a design the sculptor created for a parade float for the Mormon Pioneers centennial Days of '47 celebration in 1947. There is also a duplicate at the This Is The Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City.
The Wyoming monument was presented by David N. F. Fairbanks, one of the sculptor's sons, and his wife, Sylvia. It was received by Al Pierson of the Bureau of Land Management and Edna Kennell, executive director of the trails center.
The center overlooks the North Platte River which parallels the Mormon Pioneer Trail as well as the Pony Express, Oregon and California trails, is expected to be completed soon. It will offer visitors an interpretive look at the historic trails which passed through the area.
The Pony Express Monument captures in bronze the moment of exchanging of horses with the rider taking off on a fresh mount which the station keeper had ready. It honors the gallantry of the riders, many of whom were from Utah, as well as the station keepers.
Among Avard T. Fairbanks' body of work are many works depicting Church history including the well-known "Tragedy at Winter Quarters." The artist, anatomist and educator created more than 100 public monuments honoring great characters and events in history.