On December 30, 2003, the Wichita Kansas City Council approved moving forward with the River
Corridor Project which include the Exploration Place, a premier science center that offers
hands-on exhibits that focus on flight, medieval life in a three-story castle, and world-
renowned traveling exhibitions.

The 44-foot “Keeper of the Plains” statue‚ weighing in at 10,000 pounds, was originally the Arkansas River (pronounced in Kansas
as Ar-kansas) in May 18, 1974. After a six-month restoration project it was reinstalled in March 2006 on a new pedestal 30 feet
higher than before to allow it to be seen over the trees and buildings in the immediate vicinity.

Connecting the Keeper Plaza are two suspended foot bridges allowing people to cross from the north and south directions. This
being part of the $20 million dollar, 20 acre, River Corridor Improvement project and has become the symbol of Wichita and
Sedgwick County.

This stylized sculpture of an Indian Chief was designed by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin (1921-1980) and constructed
by Tom Washburn of Architectural Metal Products. Originally placed looking in the wrong direction the restored project now points
directly to the east‚ facing the sunrise‚ which is believed what Bosin had in mind.

These are my photos taken early morning of August 29, 2009. As you can see, this area is enjoyed by all. Easy to get to, free parking
and great photographic opportunities. I will come back.
Click here for more information of the Keeper
Click here for more Sunrise photos by Bruce Ward
Click here for evening shots of the Keeper by Bruce Ward