Vermont Folklife Center | Middlebury

The World's Largest Pheasant is a roadside attraction sculpture located in Huron, South Dakota, USA.

Visual Characteristics

This concrete and steel sculpture depicts a pheasant in flight. It stands approximately 22 feet tall and measures 40 feet long. The exterior is painted in shades of brown, red, and yellow to represent the bird's plumage.

Location & Access Logistics

The sculpture is situated at the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue SE and 10th Street SE in Huron, South Dakota. It is approximately 1.5 miles southeast of the city center. Ample free parking is available at the base of the sculpture. No public transport directly serves the immediate vicinity.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The World's Largest Pheasant was constructed in 1960 by local artist Leonard Grueskin. It was originally intended as a tribute to the state's pheasant hunting heritage and to attract attention to the city.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe and photograph the sculpture. The area around the base is suitable for short stops. Interpretive signage detailing the sculpture's history is present.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not directly available at the site. Shade is limited. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located on-site; dining options are available in the nearby city center.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the sculpture. Weather is generally most favorable for outdoor viewing during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months (May through October).

Facts & Legends

The sculpture was originally named "The Proud Bird." It has undergone several repaints and minor structural repairs since its initial construction.

Nearby Landmarks

• Huron Event Center (0.8km Northwest)
• South Dakota State Fairgrounds (1.2km Southwest)
• McCook County Historical Society Museum (2.5km North)
• Lake Byron (4.0km West)