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Ponca City, Oklahoma

Marland's favorite sculptor was Jo Davidson. He designed one of the models for the Pioneer Woman. He also sculpted the three Marland family statues, all of French limestone. Prior to the sale of the mansion, they all stood on the estate grounds. When the monks bought the property, they wanted only religious symbols on the grounds, so all three of the statues were removed and put in crates.

In 1951, Mr. Marland's statue was placed downtown on the lawn of the Civic Center, a gift to the city from Lydie. The statue of George was placed in the backyard of a close friend, and covered with straw. When the city purchased the mansion, George's statue was returned to its original location, in the circle of the hedges near the mansion's front door. It has now been placed inside.

The statue of Lydie originally stood on the north vista.George and Lydie It was visible from the breakfast room doors. When the monks removed the statue, it stayed in the crate next to Lydie's cottage for several years. In the early 1950's, when she was preparing to leave town, she paid a man to take it away and destroy it. She died thinking he had followed those instructions. After her death in 1987, and after the death of the man she had paid to destroy the statue, the mansion received a letter from one of his family members. It said the man had not destroyed the statue. He hadn't been able to bring himself to do that, so he buried it. After a long search, it was located. It was in 760 pieces, but was put back together and restored by a local monument company. Lydie's statue now stands in the lobby of the mansion.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Lake Ponca

For maximum enjoyment, scenic Lake Ponca is divided into two areas -- one for sailboats and fishing, the other for motorboats and skiing. Outdoor lovers will enjoy a picnic, a campout, or a hike through the Nature Center.

Ponca City, OK Recreation


Marland Estate Mansion

Marland modeled his dream home after the Davanzati Palace in Florence, Italy. Breathtakingly beautiful, this "Palace on the Prairie"

Ponca City, OK Museums

Standing Bear Statue and Memorial Park

A monumental tribute to all Native Americans, this 22

Ponca City, OK Arts

Ponca City Art Center

The stately Soldani Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a work of art in itself, is home to the Ponca City Art Center and its many activities. These include artists' exhibits, art classes, workshops and the annual Fine Arts Festival.

Ponca City, OK Arts

Things to do near Ponca City, OK

Ponca City Country Club

Course Access: PrivateHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: 2 days...