Chief Massasoit Statue – Utah State Capitol – Salt Lake City
Chief Massasoit Statue – Utah State Capitol – Salt Lake City
Chief Massasoit, who lived from 1590-1661, is known to history as the Wampanoag Indian chief who greeted the first colonists at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. In March 1621, several months after the landing of the Mayflower at Plymouth, Massasoit journeyed to visit the colonists, hoping to establish trade and friendly relations with the newcomers. His focus on keeping the peace is something he remained true to throughout his life. It was only after his death, and the arrival of land hungry colonists that tensions culminated in conflict known as King Philips War (1675), led by his son.
The statue of Massasoit, created by Utah artist Cyrus E. Dallin, was placed at the Utah Capitol in 1922. Several replicas of the statue stand throughout the United States, including one in Plymouth where it commemorates the first Thanksgiving, and arrival of the pilgrims.
