Kit Carson Memorial
carson city, nv
Discription:
Life-size bronze sculpture of U.S. Army officer Kit Carson riding his horse. The work is mounted on a stone base that contains a metal plaque that reads, “It was the Winter of 1843-44 when Kit Carson along with the John C. Fremont expedition worked his way south from Pyramid Lake looking for an easy route across the Sierra Nevada. Carson, depicted here tracking his way through the mountains east of this location, was considered one of the best mountain men of the day. His name is still synonymous with the wide-open spaces and the lore of the American West. An image we still cherish as part of our freedom and our heritage. It is the spirit and love of the West that we honor with this statue. Carson City takes its name from the Carson River which Fremont named to honor Kit Carson, The maps located on the ends of the monument show the route and dates of Carson’s visits to Nevada.” The plaque also contains the names of the elected officials and benefactors of the monument.
Responsible Organization/Individuals
Carson City, under the direction of Project Commissioners Truett and Eula Loftin.
Designed By:
Sculptor Buckeye Blake
Address:
201 S. Carson Street, #201, Carson City, Nevada 89701
GPS Coordinates:
Hours Available:
Ceremonies: yes
History:
The memorial was created in 1989 to honor Kit Carson, who held many titles including that of U.S. Army officer. He entered the Army as a lieutenant, and overtime was promoted to colonel, and later to brigadier general.
His battles/wars included the Mexican–American War, the Battle of San Pasqual Jicarilla War, Battle of Ojo Caliente Canyon, the American Civil War Battle of Valverde, Navajo Wars Battle of Canyon de Chelly, Plains Indian Wars First Battle of Adobe Walls. At various times he was also an Indian agent, a wilderness guide, a scout, a courier, an explorer, and a fur trapper. The memorial was established to honor the exploits of Carson in opening the American West.