Historical “Mountain Man” Statue moves to The Townsend Abbey
May 24, 2023

TOWNSEND, TN -- The historical Frederic Remington statue, “Mountain Man,” has been moved from its original resting place to Townsend.

The bronze statue was acquired by the late Fred McArthur, a resident and developer in Townsend. It has lived at the Rarity Bay Equestrian Center in Vonore since October 2000. The statue was originally commissioned by McArthur to sit in front of the barn he designed at the equestrian center as a special homage to his favorite project.

Pascale White, the donor of the statue, said the statue was the perfect touch to the barn.

“Fred has always been a fan of Remington. He’s done many projects, but the barn was his heart and he just wanted to do something special for the barn. Remington has horses portrayed in his art so he thought it would be appropriate for a horse barn.”

Not only was the statue perfect for a horse barn, but it was also representative of the history of the Townsend area. “Mountain Man” portrays a man with a rifle atop his horse. It is representative of the early settlers as they made their way to the Tuckaleechee Cove area.

The statue has been moved to The Abbey in Townsend until a long term location is prepared. The move will allow residents and visitors in Townsend to appreciate and learn about the history of the area, just like White hoped.

“Even at the barn where we were not open to the public, we did have people come specifically to visit the statue,” White said. “I think it’s best for the statute to be in a place for the public to come to see it, so I wanted it to end up in a place like a museum or park where it can be seen.”

Kim Mitchell, Blount Partnership Director of Tourism, is excited for residents and visitors alike to see this piece of history.

“Through White’s generous gift to the Townsend Cades Cove Gateway Alliance, the visitors and residents of Townsend will be able to enjoy its beauty,” Mitchell said.

The full-scale Remington statue is in front of The Townsend Abbey at 7765 River Road. Mike and Donna Chase, and Craig Belitz helped make this transport to Townsend possible. There will be a dedication of the statue honoring Pascal White's parents and thanking the Chases and Belitzes at a later date. This is the first of many sculptures Townsend business owners hope to acquire.