Sundance Kid Statue | Sundance

The Sundance Kid Statue in Sundance, Wyoming, is a striking tribute to one of the most famous outlaws of the American West, Harry Alonzo Longabaugh, better known as the Sundance Kid. The statue captures both the myth and historical roots of the infamous figure, who, alongside Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch, became a symbol of the frontier’s lawless and adventurous spirit.

Design and Appearance:
The life-sized bronze statue depicts the Sundance Kid in period attire, complete with wide-brimmed hat, vest, and holstered revolver. The sculptor captured a sense of movement and attitude, with a slightly cocked stance and an alert gaze, evoking the outlaw’s quick-witted, elusive reputation. Mounted on a stone base, the statue often features engraved plaques detailing his life, exploits, and connection to Wyoming, particularly the Black Hills region where he spent part of his youth.

Historical Significance:
While the Sundance Kid’s life straddled fact and legend, the statue commemorates his ties to northeastern Wyoming, reminding visitors that the region played a role in the broader story of the American frontier. The monument also situates Sundance within a larger historical context of law enforcement, ranching, and settlement in the late 1800s, connecting the town to the lore of the Wild West.

Visitor Experience:
The statue is located in a small park near the center of Sundance, making it easily accessible for pedestrians. Visitors often pause to examine the details-the folds of the clothing, the weathered texture of the bronze, and the inscriptions that recount his story. The surrounding area includes benches and landscaped flowerbeds, allowing for quiet reflection or photo opportunities. Seasonal events in Sundance occasionally incorporate the statue, such as local heritage days or western-themed festivals, adding a lively, community-oriented atmosphere.

Nearby Amenities:
The statue is close to the Sundance town center, with local shops, cafes, and historic buildings nearby. Visitors can combine a stop at the statue with a walk through downtown Sundance, exploring local galleries, antique stores, or nearby historical markers that further contextualize the area’s frontier history.

The Sundance Kid Statue blends art, history, and local legend, offering a tangible link to Wyoming’s frontier past while celebrating the enduring fascination with Wild West figures.