The Promised Land, Bronze sculpture in Chapman Square, Portland, United States
The Promised Land is a bronze sculpture depicting a pioneer family with a father, mother, and son positioned together with a wagon wheel and rifle. The figures are arranged in a composition meant to represent westward movement and settlement.
Created by sculptor David Manuel in 1993, the work commemorated the 150th anniversary of the Oregon Trail. It references settlers from 1843 and their journey westward across the continent.
The sculpture shows a settler family and their possessions, reflecting a particular view of westward expansion that centers on European pioneers. This representation prompted conversations about whose stories are told through public art and which communities were overlooked in these narratives.
The sculpture was removed from public display in 2020 and is not permanently available to view in the square. Check current status before planning a visit, as the piece may be in storage or undergoing assessment.
In 2023, the Mellon Foundation awarded funds to Portland and Lewis & Clark College to examine restoration and reconsideration of this and other removed sculptures. The initiative aims to develop thoughtful approaches to the future of contested public art.
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