The Wilson Brothers on the Dallas County Freedom Rock

joynealkidney

7 years ago

It’s been such a pleasure to watch the artistry of Ray Sorensen transform a grey boulder into an impressive memorial to some of the heroes of Dallas County, Iowa.

The rock is just south of the Nineteen 14 bar and grill, which is the restored Minburn Depot. The Raccoon River Valley Bike Trail runs just north of the old depot.

The five Wilson brothers were on a preliminary sketch for a fund-raising flyer. Minburn Legion Post 99 made application to host an official Freedom Rock, painted by Iowa artist Ray Sorensen. Legion posts across the county helped to raise funds for it.

Ray Sorensen began work on the boulder in mid-July, 2019.

The artist at work. The Wilson brothers were easily identifiable already. (Photos under tent thanks to Larry Cornelison, Dallas County Freedom Rock committee)

July 18, 2019. Ray Sorensen, The Freedom Rock founder and artist.

About July 20. Sweltering temps were in the 90s as he worked under that tent.

July 25. The artistry is even more impressive closeup–the brothers’ lucid eyes, their characters captured. Borne by the wings of an American Bald Eagle. Sheltered by Old Glory, the artist’s iconic American flag.

The terrible sacrifice of this ordinary Iowa family will never be forgotten. Five sons enlisted. Only two came home.

The Dallas County Freedom Rock will be dedicated at 10:00 October 19, Minburn, Iowa. It’s right along Highway 169, just south of the Nineteen 14, which is at 210 4th Street. Handicapped parking will be at the parking lot for the restaurant.