Passing of the Buffalo Finds New Home at Roundabout

The Passing of the Buffalo sculpture will begin its journey home Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 7:30am. The sculpture has been in the lobby of Minnetrista since 1999. It will take a crew of 6 men, plus equipment, about 3 hours to remove the large sculpture.

Passing of the Buffalo was created by Cyrus E. Dallin (1861-1944). Dallin was known for his western-themed sculptures, especially those relating to Native Americans. In 1929, he completed Passing of the Buffalo, also known as The Last Arrow. A loin-cloth clad Chief stands with a moccasined foot resting carelessly upon the dried skull of a long-dead buffalo. The feathers of his headdress flow impressively to the ground behind him; a necklace of three bear claws adorns his chest. His arrowless bow hangs uselessly from one hand. He stares off into the distance but his face shows no emotion.

The sculpture was purchased by Edmund F. Petty in 1975, who proposed that it be acquired as a tribute to his father, Fred J. Petty. In 1976, the memorial was donated to the City of Muncie and was installed at the intersection of Walnut and Charles Streets in front of the Ball Stores department store. By the summer of 1999, the department store had closed, and the building had been demolished. Street repairs necessitated moving the statue, so the opportunity was taken to perform much-needed restoration and preservation. The sculpture has been displayed at Minnetrista since the restoration.


Located along historic White River, Minnetrista includes 40 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, a modern museum facility, an historic home, Nature Area, numerous sculptures, and a portion of the White River Greenway. Minnetrista mission is to create awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the natural and cultural heritage of East Central Indiana. It offers dynamic community activities and exhibits that honor and reflect its mission. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.