Experience a powerful tribute to Chief Big Elk, a visionary leader of the Omaha Tribe, at the Big Elk Statue in Omaha, Nebraska. Unveiled in August 2023, this striking bronze sculpture—created by renowned artist Benjamin Victor—stands as a testament to Chief Big Elk’s enduring legacy of leadership, diplomacy, and resilience.
This life-and-a-half-size statue captures the strength and wisdom of Chief Big Elk, who guided the Omaha people through a period of profound change in the early 19th century. The statue’s base features an engraved stone with one of his historic speeches, offering visitors a chance to reflect on his words and impact.
Chief Big Elk, also known as Ontopanga, was born around 1770-75 and led the Omaha Tribe from 1811 to the 1840s. A respected orator and peacemaker, he played a crucial role in navigating relations with the United States while maintaining the sovereignty and dignity of his people. His final resting place is in Bellevue, Nebraska.
Located at Lewis & Clark Landing along the Missouri River, the statue is not just an artistic masterpiece but also a place of learning and reflection. It serves as an invitation for all to discover the rich history of the Omaha Tribe and deepen their understanding of Indigenous heritage.
602 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Distance: 0.06 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences Fun and Sports
View Listing
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center, Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
601 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features Outdoor Experiences
View Listing
601 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
601 Riverfront Dr, Omaha, NE 68102
Distance: 0.27 mi (straight line)
Museums and Interpretive Centers LC Features
View Listing
1001 Douglas St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Distance: 0.29 mi (straight line)
Galleries and Venues Festivals and Events Outdoor Experiences
View Listing
Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront, Douglas Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.30 mi (straight line)
Galleries and Venues Outdoor Experiences
View Listing
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge., Riverfront Drive, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.34 mi (straight line)
Outdoor Experiences Walks and Hikes
View Listing
The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill, North 13th Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.49 mi (straight line)
The Old Market, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.51 mi (straight line)
Lodging Galleries and Venues Food and Drinks Shopping
View Listing
1200 Mike Fahey St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA
Distance: 0.56 mi (straight line)
Festivals and Events Fun and Sports
View Listing
1450 Capitol Ave, Omaha, NE 68179, USA
Distance: 0.58 mi (straight line)
General History Outdoor Experiences
View Listing
The Durham Museum, South 10th Street, Omaha, NE, USA
Distance: 0.70 mi (straight line)
Guided Tours Museums and Interpretive Centers
View ListingOur bi-weekly newsletter provides news, history, and information for those interested in traveling along along the Lewis & Clark Trail.