The main components for an African-American monument arrived at the Texas capitol grounds this week, reports The Texas Tribune.
The monument is finally being installed after more than two decades of effort by lawmakers. The memorial was designed and built by Denver-based sculptor Ed Dwight. The bronze and granite memorial will celebrate more than 400 years of achievements by black Texans.
One side of the monument depicts 48 slaves. The scene represents the moment slaves were emancipated in Texas. The other side of the monument honors contributions black Texans have made to the state’s cattle, cotton and oil industries. A public dedication and unveiling of the monument is planned for this autumn, after the monument is completed. Last year Texas approved $1.5 million to complete construction of the project.
