Bronze Bust of York, Enslaved Explorer, Finds Permanent Home at Portland Art Museum
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 wood and urethane sculpture that stood in Mount Tabor Park in 2021. The installation marks a significant moment in recognizing York’s contributions to American history and sparking dialogue about the meaning of public monuments.
York’s Historical Significance
York, born around 1772, was enslaved by William Clark throughout the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1803-1806). Despite not being considered an official member of the Corps of Discovery, York performed essential duties, including hunting, building shelters, negotiating with Native American tribes, and caring for the sick. He was the first person of African descent to cross North America.
After the expedition, Clark refused to grant York his freedom, and he died in obscurity before 1832, receiving no compensation or recognition for his service. The Oregon Black Pioneers has contributed a plaque that will be installed with the bust, highlighting his story.
From Mount Tabor Park to the Portland Art Museum
The original bust of York, created by artist Todd McGrain, was secretly installed in Mount Tabor Park in February 2021, replacing a statue of Oregonian editor Harvey W. Scott, a known racist whose statue had been toppled in October 2020. McGrain, a student of Portland State University professor Darrell Millner, did not seek city permission for the installation, intending it to be temporary. The original sculpture was later vandalized and damaged in July 2021.
The Portland Art Museum will now permanently display the new bronze bust, while the original Styrofoam bust will be exhibited at Oregon Contemporary as part of the 2026 Oregon Artists’ Biennial, curated by TK Smith. The City of Portland, in collaboration with Oregon Contemporary and Portland State University, will conduct a community survey to determine the long-term placement of the bust.
Continuing the Conversation
The installation of York’s bust is intended to continue conversations about American history and the role of monuments in public spaces. The bust serves as a tribute to a historically overlooked figure and a reminder of the complexities of the past.