Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park
Nestled in the rolling green hills of northeastern Oklahoma, near the small town of Foyil, lies a testament to one man’s vision and dedication: Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park. This captivating roadside attraction, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a vibrant explosion of folk art, anchored by what is often touted as the World’s Largest Concrete Totem Pole. More than just a collection of sculptures, the park is a tangible piece of American history, offering a glimpse into the mind and craftsmanship of its creator, Nathan Edward "Ed" Galloway. A visit to Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park is a step back in time, a chance to appreciate the power of individual artistry and the enduring allure of folk art.
The park’s centerpiece, the colossal totem pole, dominates the landscape with its imposing height and kaleidoscope of colors. Rising an impressive 90 feet into the Oklahoma sky, the structure is a feat of engineering and artistic expression. Constructed between 1937 and 1948, Galloway poured his heart and soul, along with an estimated 28 tons of cement, six tons of steel, and 100 tons of sand and rock, into its creation. The pole isn’t merely a monolithic structure; it’s a meticulously crafted narrative, a three-dimensional canvas teeming with intricate carvings. The sheer scale of the totem pole is breathtaking, a testament to Galloway’s ambition and unwavering commitment.
The artistic theme of the totem pole largely revolves around a tribute to the American Indian. Galloway incorporated over 200 carved images into the structure, depicting a diverse array of animals, geometric patterns, and human figures. Near the apex of the pole, four nine-foot-tall figures representing different Native American tribes stand as silent guardians, their stoic expressions overlooking the park below. The detail in these carvings is remarkable, showcasing Galloway’s skill and his deep respect for Native American culture. The entire totem pole emerges from the back of a massive, sculpted turtle, further emphasizing the connection to nature and the earth. The symbolism woven into the totem pole invites visitors to contemplate the rich history and traditions of the American Indian.
The sprawling nine-acre park surrounding the central totem pole is an integral part of the Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park experience. The meticulously maintained grounds provide a tranquil setting for exploring the various sculptures and buildings that Galloway created. One of the most unique structures within the park is the eleven-sided "Fiddle House." This unusual building, aptly named, was originally built to house Galloway’s extensive collection of hand-carved fiddles. The Fiddle House itself is a work of art, supported both inside and out by 25 smaller concrete totem poles, each adorned with its own unique carvings and colors. Today, the Fiddle House serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts made by Galloway and providing visitors with a visual history of the park’s development. The Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park museum offers insights into the artist’s life and the inspiration behind his work.
Throughout the park, visitors will discover a multitude of smaller, yet equally captivating, totem poles and sculptures. These colorful creations showcase Galloway’s unique style, blending elements of Native American folk art with his own distinct artistic vision. Each totem tells a story, inviting viewers to interpret the symbols and imagery. The vibrant colors and whimsical designs of the sculptures create a sense of joy and wonder, making the park a truly immersive and engaging experience. A walk through Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park is a journey through a world of imagination and creativity.
Nathan Edward Galloway’s life story is as compelling as the art he created. Born in Missouri in 1880, Galloway displayed an early aptitude for carving, honing his skills by crafting mother-of-pearl buttons and small wooden objects. His artistic horizons expanded during his service in the U.S. Army in the early 1900s, where he was stationed in the Philippine Islands. There, he encountered Japanese and Far Eastern art, which had a profound influence on his artistic style. Upon his return to Missouri, Galloway began creating large-scale sculptures from tree trunks, incorporating human figures, fish, and reptiles into his designs. These early works foreshadowed the monumental creations that would later define his legacy.
Galloway’s unique artistic talent caught the attention of Charles Page, the founder and philanthropist of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, in 1914. This encounter led to a long and fruitful relationship, with Page employing Galloway as a manual arts instructor at the Sand Springs Home, a children’s orphanage. For the next 20 years, Galloway dedicated himself to teaching woodworking to the boys at the orphanage, imparting his skills and fostering their creativity. This period in his life instilled in him a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to sharing his artistic passion with others.
In 1937, Galloway retired from his teaching position and moved to the property in Foyil, Oklahoma, where Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park now stands. Free from the constraints of employment, he devoted himself entirely to his art. Working primarily alone, he embarked on the ambitious project of building the totem pole and the other sculptures that populate the park. His daily routine was a testament to his dedication: rising at 5:00 a.m. and working tirelessly on his elaborate creations until well past sunset. This unwavering commitment to his art continued until his death in 1962.
Following Galloway’s death, the park faced a period of decline. Weather and neglect took their toll on the sculptures, and many of the fiddles that were once housed in the Fiddle House were stolen in 1970 and never recovered. The park’s future looked uncertain, but thankfully, a dedicated group of individuals stepped in to preserve Galloway’s legacy.
In the 1990s, the Kansas Grassroots Art Association, whose members lived near Lawrence, Kansas, spearheaded a restoration effort. Over a seven-year period, members of the association volunteered their time and skills to repaint the totems during Labor Day and Memorial Day weekends. This dedicated effort helped to revitalize the park and restore its vibrant colors. The commitment of the Kansas Grassroots Art Association ensured that Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park would continue to be a source of inspiration for generations to come.
Today, the park is owned and operated by the Rogers County Historical Society, with the Foyil Heritage Association assisting with fundraising and yard maintenance. These organizations work tirelessly to preserve the park’s historical significance and ensure that it remains a welcoming destination for visitors.
Visitors to Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park can enjoy picnic areas on the beautifully kept grounds during daylight hours. The Fiddle House Museum and Gift Shop are open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering a chance to learn more about Galloway’s life and work and to purchase souvenirs.
Located just ten miles north of Claremore, Oklahoma, off historic Route 66 highway and four miles east of Foyil on highway 28A, Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park is easily accessible for travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience. It stands as a vibrant monument to one man’s artistic vision and a testament to the enduring power of folk art.