SOUNDS OF THE NIGHT

Bronze, 27″H x 16″L x 11″D, Limited Ed. of 35 – Created 2019

Enticed by the tales of California’s gold, men traveled West leaving their families behind. Thousands of women chose to join their husbands, determined by their decision to keep their families together, knowing they were leaving behind the comforts and security of civilization and extended families.

From 1840 – 1869, around 350,000 settlers traveled Westward on the Oregon Trail, often taking 4 – 6 months to complete. Sadly, this perilous trek became known as our nation’s longest graveyard. Upwards of 65,000 settlers died due to illness, drowning, childbirth, and accidents. As they crossed vast prairies, scorching deserts, and mountains, the pioneer woman advanced civilization to the Wild West with schools, churches, hospitals, and libraries.

Forged by enduring the hardships of frontier life, these women were as important in our nation’s history as the more notable male characters and legends of the West. Our nation’s history has often overlooked their bravery, heroic deeds, contributions, and sacrifices.

Vic’s admiration for not only the women in his own family’s history but for all women who dared to pioneer the American West compelled him to create a sculpture depicting a determined woman holding a double-barrel black powder shotgun in the crook of her left arm while holding a lighted lantern in her right, fearlessly looking deep into the “Sounds of the Night.”