It represents the native history of our area, the predecessors of our city. It hopes to pay tribute to the many tribes who lived on the land for so many years. It is one of the few, but important, examples of my city recognizing its roots.
Commissioned as part of the bicentennial IN 1974, The Keeper of the Plains, which sits at the confluence of two rivers, is the art of Blackbear Bosin.
It is, quite frankly, stunning. A few years back, the area where the Keeper had sat for more than 30 years, was recreated. The Keeper was risen, the four elements added (fire pits that surround the Keeper, on "islands" in the river = fire; a light mist that rises out of the rocks = air; the rivers = the rivers ; the "rocks" = earth.)
Also added: the suspension bridges, a historical look at native life on the plains, walking trails, park. It is in the " backyard" of the Mid-America All Indian Center.
It is one of our favorite places to go as a family. We had Lauryn's last birthday celebration here -- after the cake and presents at home, we loaded up the extended family and spent an evening at the Keeper.
Its beauty makes for fun camera angles, effects, experiments.
Tribal music is played over a speaker system, it is well-lit enough to be safe, but not so much that it is overwhelming. It is a quiet, reflective serene place to spend time, even though it is quite literally, at the center of our city. The views are spectacular, and almost surreal -- how we can be in the center of the city, and yet in the midst of such peace.
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