Riding into the Sunset

"Riding into the Sunset" is an exquisite bronze sculpture by Electra Waggoner Biggs, portraying the beloved Will Rogers on his dependable horse, Soapsuds. This iconic piece is located in four distinct places: Fort Worth, Texas; Claremore, Oklahoma; Lubbock, Texas; and Dallas, Texas. Commissioned in 1937 by Amon G. Carter to honor Will Rogers, who had passed away in 1935, the project posed some challenges for Biggs, particularly in achieving the correct horse anatomy, necessitating expert assistance to perfect the sculpture.

In Fort Worth, the original cast was installed in 1942 at Amon Carter Square, directly in front of the Will Rogers Memorial Center. In Claremore, Oklahoma, the sculpture was initially placed near the museum entrance but was later relocated beside Will Rogers' tomb, providing a scenic overlook of the city. The Lubbock casting found its home at Texas Tech University in 1950, thanks to a donation from the Amon G. Carter Foundation. It stands prominently in Amon G. Carter Plaza at the university's main entrance, where a whimsical campus legend suggests it was slightly repositioned to avoid any awkward orientation towards local businesses. The Dallas casting was installed in 1989 at the Hilton Anatole, a gracious gift from Trammell Crow.

Each location displaying "Riding into the Sunset" boasts its own unique stories and historical significance. The sculpture not only enhances cultural richness but also holds deep sentimental value for the communities. It serves as a lasting tribute to Will Rogers, celebrating his enduring legacy and his special connection to these regions.