More than 75 people were present on the morning of Wednesday, August 3, in the parking lot south of the Boot Hill Museum for a ribbon cutting and storyboard unveiling for the “Kansas Wheat Shock.”
Miss Kitty welcomed the crowd and introduced special guests; artist Hoss Haley, High Plains Journal Owner Nelson Spencer Jr., and Dodge City Vice Mayor Michael Burns. The 32-foot-high fine art sculpture was built in 1980 and has stood tall on the south lawn of the High Plains Journal (HPJ) headquarters for more than 40 years. The sculpture was donated to the city in honor of HPJ’s legacy in Dodge City and the contributions of its past, present, and future employees.
“This is another great piece of public art that highlights the creativity of our community,” said Melissa McCoy, assistant city manager/public affairs for the City of Dodge City. “We are grateful that the wonderful folks at the High Plains Journal have generously donated this amazing sculpture.”
The Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the sculpture. A storyboard located on the west side of the 1139 Steam Engine that details the creation of the sculpture and the history of the High Plains Journal and features a photo of the sculpture after its original installation (1982) and a photo of the past publishers of the HPJ; Tom Taylor, Joe Berkely, and Duane Ross.
A reception following the ceremony was held in the Boot Hill Museum Mariah Gallery, providing attendees with light refreshments and the opportunity to socialize and meet with the special guests.