On November 7, the Sheridan Public Arts Committee (SPAC) held a special public reception at the Museum of the Bighorns to introduce the artist selected for the Iron Riders Memorial project. The event gave local residents a chance to meet Professor Littleton Alston, whose work will commemorate the historic Iron Riders of the region.
Community gathering celebrates heritage
Greg Luhman, president of the Museum of the Bighorns, opened the reception by welcoming the crowd and expressing gratitude for the community’s ongoing support of the museum’s programs. He highlighted the importance of preserving local history through public art and noted that the Iron Riders Memorial will become a lasting tribute to the men who helped shape Sheridan’s early development.
After the opening remarks, Professor Alston addressed the audience. He spoke about his artistic vision for the memorial, describing how he plans to blend realistic sculpture with interpretive elements that reflect the rugged spirit of the Iron Riders. Alston emphasized that the project will involve local craftsmen and volunteers, creating a collaborative effort that ties the artwork to the community that inspired it.
Moment of silence for a valued friend
The reception also included a moment of silence for Paul Del Rossi, a longtime supporter of the museum who passed away earlier in the week. Luhman and several committee members honored Del Rossi’s contributions, noting that his dedication helped bring many of the museum’s recent exhibitions to life.
Attendees were invited to view preliminary sketches and models of the memorial, ask questions, and share ideas for how the artwork might be integrated into future museum events. Many expressed excitement about the project’s potential to draw visitors to Sheridan and to educate younger generations about the region’s pioneering past.
Looking ahead
SPAC announced that the next phase of the Iron Riders Memorial will involve fundraising efforts, with a goal of securing private donations and local business sponsorships. The committee plans to host additional community forums later this year to keep the public informed and involved.
“This memorial is not just a piece of art; it’s a story we’re telling together,” said SPAC chairperson Maria Hernandez. “We want every Sheridan resident to feel a connection to the legacy of the Iron Riders and to see how our shared history can inspire future generations.”
The Museum of the Bighorns remains open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, offering rotating exhibits that celebrate the cultural and natural heritage of the Bighorn Basin.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
