 Since 1998 Tag Richards has committed his life to creating a sculpture of Sacajawea. It is a nurturing, maternal pose that captures a quiet moment between Sacajawea and her nine-month old son in November of 1805. The sculpture will be a monumental bronze study of Sacajawea and Pomp. Its intended placement is Lake Sacajawea in Longview, Washington.
Tag's early research led to a personal friendship with the Ariwite family, descendants of Sacajawea's brother, Cameahwait. Rod Ariwite is an historian and the Executive Director of the Fort Lemhi Indian Community. His daughter and grandson, serve as models and inspiration for the sculpture. This relationship has fueled the passion for completing this sculpture and giving voice to the story of the Lemhi People.
In a letter from the Fort Lemhi Indian Community addressed to the mayor of Longview, Washington., Rod Ariwite wrote:
"On behalf of the descendents of Sacajawea, I write this brief letter to show our sincere support for the work of Mr. Tag Richards. Over the past number of years, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Mr. Richards on this particular piece. I strongly feel that Mr. Richards has his heart and the artistic talent in preparing this piece for his hometown of Longview.
In anticipation of the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery commemoration, it would be appropriate that a lake named in behalf of the American Indian heroine, Sacajawea. Also have a statue in the likeness of her be present at your city's Lake Sacajawea.
The Lemhi Shoshone are within days of finalizing the publishing of a historic account of Sacajawea's people. Over the last seven years we have been preparing a historic account of the legacy of her people with the assistance of the Washington State University, Department of History in Pullman. I can assure you that the Tag Richards has been fully commissioned by the Lemhi Shoshone.
This particular piece is the most authentic and realistic Sacajawea piece across this country. I strongly feel this piece emulates the finest qualities of motherhood and the sincere friendship of our grandmother, Sacajawea.
I apologize for not being present to give support to our friend, Mr. Richards in Longview, Washington tonight."
Sincerely,
Roderick Ariwite,
Executive Director, Fort Lemhi Indian Community
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