York Statue: Lewis & Clark’s Enslaved Explorer Finds a Home in Portland

A bronze bust of York, the only African American member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, has been installed at the Portland Art Museum, replacing a temporary sculpture that stood in Mount Tabor Park. The new statue, created by artist Todd McGrain, is a permanent replacement for the original, which was damaged by vandals in July 2021.

The original bust, secretly installed in February 2021 on the pedestal previously occupied by a statue of Harvey W. Scott, a known racist and former editor of The Oregonian, sparked dialogue around the Black Lives Matter movement and the meaning of public monuments. McGrain did not seek city permission for the initial installation, anticipating it would be temporary. The city announced plans to remove the original sculpture in June 2021 and it was subsequently torn down and damaged by vandals weeks later.

McGrain revealed his identity as the artist after the initial bust was removed. He is offering to donate a permanent bronze version to the city, according to reports from August 2021. The Portland Art Museum’s debut of the bronze bust marks a significant step in recognizing York’s historical importance.

York, born around 1772, was enslaved by William Clark during the expedition from 1803 to 1806. Despite not being considered an official member of the Corps of Discovery, he performed the same duties as other enlisted men, including hunting, building shelters, negotiating with Native Americans, and caring for the sick. He was the first person of African descent to cross North America, setting foot in present-day Portland in April 1806.

Following the expedition, Clark refused York’s request for freedom, and he died in obscurity before 1832, receiving no compensation or recognition for his contributions. The Oregon Black Pioneers contributed a plaque that will be installed alongside the bust, acknowledging his pivotal role in American history.

The original bust, constructed from Styrofoam painted to resemble bronze, will be displayed at Oregon Contemporary as part of the 2026 Oregon Artists’ Biennial, curated by TK Smith. The exhibition aims to further conversations about American history and the evolving understanding of monuments.

In collaboration with Oregon Contemporary, Portland State University, and the City of Portland, a community survey will be conducted to gather input from Portlanders regarding the long-term placement of the bronze bust.