Welcome to the site of ‘The Appeal to the Great Spirit,’ a captivating piece of art that stands as a symbol in Muncie, Indiana. This bronze statue is a replica of the original work by Cyrus Dallin, first created in 1908 and situated in front of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. The statue portrays a Native American on horseback, arms outstretched to the sky, making a spiritual appeal to the Great Spirit—a representation of reverence and connection to the natural world.
The story of this statue in Muncie is deeply tied to the city’s history. In 1929, this replica was installed here, funded by the family of Edmund Burke Ball, a prominent figure in Muncie’s industrial growth. The Ball family, known for their Ball Corporation, were key players during the gas boom in the late 19th century, which transformed Muncie from a small trading town into a bustling industrial hub.
The presence of this statue in Muncie highlights the city’s connection to broader cultural and historical narratives. It serves as a reminder of the diverse influences and stories that have shaped this region—stories of Native American heritage, industrial progress, and artistic expression.
As you stand here, imagine the vibrant history of Muncie, a city that has evolved from its early days as a Lenape settlement to a manufacturing powerhouse. This statue, while rooted in artistic beauty, also acts as a bridge to the past, inviting us to reflect on the cultural and historical journeys that have converged here.
