Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies

If you come along I-90 in Washington State and near the center of the state between George and Vantage, you might spot a herd of wild horses on the hill.

This is the Wild Horses Monument--Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies.

A good view can be had from the parking area at the turn-out--especially good if you have binoculars or a zoom lens. 

I am not sure how long the sculpture has been in place, as we don't normally travel that route. It has been there for at least fifteen years. There are fifteen horses, and the sculpture is not complete. The artist originally intended to add more horses and the basket  which is part of the legend on which the piece is based.

You can find the legend retold with additional images of the life sized herd at Toby's site here. Unfortunately, as he relates, the plaques describing the scene have been defaced and still are not replaced. It would be nice to have the information available there.

One day I will go back when I have some time, my hiking boots, and a good wind-breaker. I want to brave the fierce wind that winds down the Columbia (the hills on the opposite side of the river are home to a huge wind farm.) and the possibility of rattlesnakes to get up close and personal with these magnificent pieces of art.

You will hear about it here when and if I do.