York: Terra Incognita facts for kids
Quick facts for kids York: Terra Incognita |
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The statue in 2017
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| Artist | Alison Saar |
| Year | 2010 |
| Medium | Brass sculpture |
| Subject | York |
| Location | Portland, Oregon, United States |
| 45°27′03″N 122°40′11″W / 45.45097°N 122.66974°W | |
York: Terra Incognita is a special outdoor statue located in Portland, Oregon. You can find it near the Aubrey Watzek Library at Lewis & Clark College. This amazing sculpture is made of brass and was created by the artist Alison Saar.
The statue honors York, an important African-American explorer. He was a key member of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition. The monument was officially revealed on May 8, 2010. The statue itself is about 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall. It stands on a bronze base that is about 2 feet (0.6 meters) high.
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Who Was York?
York was an enslaved African American who traveled with the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This journey explored the western parts of North America. He was born around 1770 and was owned by William Clark, one of the expedition leaders.
York played a very important role in the expedition. He was a skilled hunter and helped provide food for the group. He also helped care for the sick and injured.
York's Unique Skills
York was also a great swimmer and strong. He often helped the team move their boats and supplies. His physical strength was very helpful during the difficult journey.
Because of his dark skin, many Native American tribes had never seen someone like York before. This made him a curiosity and often helped the expedition meet new tribes peacefully. He was sometimes seen as a powerful or spiritual figure.
Life After the Expedition
After the expedition ended in 1806, York returned with the group. However, he was not immediately given his freedom. He continued to be enslaved by William Clark for several more years.
York eventually gained his freedom, but the exact date and details are not fully known. He later worked as a wagon driver. His story is a reminder of the complex history of the expedition.
About the Artist: Alison Saar
Alison Saar is an American artist known for her sculptures. She often uses materials like wood, bronze, and found objects. Her artwork often explores themes of identity, race, and history.
Saar's sculptures are known for being very expressive and powerful. She often creates figures that tell stories about African-American culture and experiences. Her work helps people think about important social issues.
Why This Statue is Important
The York: Terra Incognita statue is important for several reasons. It helps people remember York's contributions to American history. For a long time, his role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition was not widely recognized.
The statue also helps to tell a more complete story of the expedition. It highlights the diverse people who were part of this historic journey. It reminds us that history is made by many different individuals.
The Meaning of "Terra Incognita"
The title of the statue, Terra Incognita, is a Latin phrase. It means "unknown land." This phrase was often used on old maps to mark areas that had not yet been explored.
The title has a double meaning for York. It refers to the unknown lands he explored with Lewis and Clark. It also refers to the unknown future he faced as an enslaved person seeking freedom. It represents his journey into an uncertain world.
Images for kids
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The statue in 2017
