The Trail of Governors – How it Began

The trail began as a vision to create a lasting legacy of South Dakota’s governors. It was the brainchild of two Pierre businessmen Leroy Foster and Rick Jensen with a love of history, an appreciation of the arts, and a shared sense of pride in their favorite city and state. These dreamers believed their rough concept could be brought to life, or life-size anyway. It would be a trail of bronze statues honoring each of the state’s governors for the enjoyment and enlightenment of those living in and visiting South Dakota and its Capital city. A bit of research convinced them there was not another trail honoring an entire state’s governors in this way anywhere in the country, making their idea unique.

The project quickly stirred dust and forged allies. The Trail of Governors Foundation was created and planning moved steadily forward, building enthusiasm with each new contact. Former governors’ families who had been identified were notified. Governors’ families from across the United States shared their personal stories of these South Dakota leaders.

These well-known, respected South Dakota artists were selected to create the sculptures: Lee Leuning, John Lopez, James Michael Maher, Sherri Treeby, and James Van Nuys. The foundation unveiled bronze statues each year beginning in 2012 and completed the placement of 31 former governor statues in 2022. Plans are to continue commissioning statues as each future governor leaves office so the trail will continue winding its way through South Dakota’s future. The governors guide visitors through Pierre’s business district, near the shores of the Missouri River, and around the state Capitol Complex. 

Private donations fund each statue with a donor or donor group contributing for each statue, limited to four plaque-naming donors per statue. These donors are acknowledged via bronze plaque with that statue. Additional donations of any amount are always welcome and are posted online. These additional donations are invested in future statues and ongoing trail-related expenses such as maintenance and visitor information.

The South Dakota Community Foundation will provide funding guidance and oversight.