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Monument · Wichita, Kansas
Keeper of the Plains
A 13-meter steel sculpture of a Native warrior by Blackbear Bosin, located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas rivers, surrounded by walkways and stone fire rings that are lit at night.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Keeper of the Plains
The Keeper of the Plains is a steel sculpture of about 13 meters created by artist Blackbear Bosin, who was of Kiowa and Comanche heritage, and installed in 1974 at the point where the Little Arkansas flows into the Arkansas River in central Wichita. It depicts a Native warrior with arms raised to the sky, as a tribute to the peoples who lived on the plains.
The sculpture stands on a stone base in the middle of the confluence, connected to the banks by two cable-suspended pedestrian bridges. Around it, the plaza has panels about Indigenous cultures and the Mid-America All-Indian Museum is adjacent.
At night, typically in months without rain and strong wind, the stone fire rings at the base, the Ring of Fire, are lit for a few minutes and illuminate the sculpture. The site is open daily and no admission is charged.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to an hour.
Best time
At dusk, when the fire rings are usually lit; confirm the schedule, which depends on the weather and time of year.
How to get there
It is in downtown Wichita, next to the Mid-America All-Indian Museum, about 2 km from Old Town. There is nearby parking and trails along the river.
Tip
Cross the two pedestrian bridges to view the sculpture from different sides.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Keeper of the Plains
Who made the Keeper of the Plains sculpture?
The artist Blackbear Bosin, of Kiowa and Comanche descent, in 1974.
When do they light the fire around the Keeper of the Plains?
At night, for a few minutes, generally in months without rain and strong wind. The schedule depends on weather; confirm in advance.
Is there a fee to see the Keeper of the Plains?
No admission is charged; the plaza and bridges are open every day.