The Waco Chisholm Trail Heritage

In an effort to promote cultural awareness and economic expansion, prominent Waco businessman, Clifton Robinson has donated $1 million to launch the formation of “The Waco Chisholm Trail Heritage”. This monumental sculpture project by nationally renowned sculptor Robert Summers harkens back to the days of the cattle drives . In coordination with Waco Cultural Arts Fest, Robinson is encouraging public participation. “Branding the Brazos” is a grant challenge urging the larger community to match his $1 million contribution.

“Branding the Brazos” will create an ongoing fund for sculpture projects in the area and was designed to ultimately establish the Brazos River Corridor as a gateway for Waco’s cultural district. WCAF Director Doreen Ravenscroft is confident the project will become a focal point for the community, emphasizing Waco’s distinct heritage and commitment to the arts. Beyond its cultural benefits, Robinson believes the lasting success of “The Waco Chisholm Trail Heritage Project” will be its economic impact on the city. Both Robinson and Ravenscroft are convinced that the projects funded by “Branding the Brazos” will stimulate economic growth through increased tourism.

Ravenscroft said, “Having the work of such a renowned artist as Robert Summers will make a wonderful economic impact on Waco and the downtown area, as has happened with many other cities.”

Waco would join other cities such as Dallas, Plano, and Ft. Worth in showcasing monumental sculpture projects by Summers, placing it among the ranks of some of Texas’s greatest cultural arts centers. In Dallas, Summers’ sculpture “Trail Drive: An American Monument to the West”, located in Pioneer Plaza, is considered by the Dallas Convention Center and Visitors Bureau to be the most photographed attraction in the city.

Summers’ work has a longtime reputation for attracting community growth through sculpture. Some of his honors include Western Artist of the Year in 2003 by the Academy of Western Art, features in Texas Highways and National Geographic, and creating the largest contiguous bronze monument in North America. Local residents can see Summers’ work displayed at the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame with his life-size depiction of “Old Texas Ranger.”

“The Waco Chisholm Trail Heritage” project, designed to reflect Waco’s heritage, will be located at the Suspension Bridge entrance of Indian Springs Park, making it easily accessible for tourist and resident viewing. Summers’ original design for the three part bronze sculpture includes three horse-backed riders and seven to nine longhorns created at 125 to 150 percent of their original size.

Ideas for this project originated with last year’s first annual Waco Sculpture Competition and Exhibition, sponsored by the WCAF. Thanks to a successful fundraising effort by many Waco citizens, the event resulted in the purchase of the “Las Mesas” sculpture by international sculptor Jesus Morales. Following the purchase, the lead donor Robinson became interested in starting a monumental arts project for Waco, which evolved into “The Waco Chisholm Trail Heritage.” The project will take three years to design and complete, with plans for the first part’s placement in about 15 months.

The $1 million dollar donation from Robinson comes with an additional $1 million dollar challenge grant to the Waco community to fund additional sculpture projects for the Brazos River Corridor. Those choosing to donate funds to this project will be permanently recognized at the sculpture location.

The fundraising team will be coordinated by Nell Hawkins and Doreen Ravenscroft, and supported by Mr. Clifton Robinson. Those interested in contributing a financial donation should contact: