The celebration of Peoria County’s bicentennial includes ceramic bison statues placed around the region, and county staff say they’re installing almost double the number of anticipated animals.
The county originally announced the stampede of artsy bison in January. Then, officials estimated around 20 bison, commissioned by local businesses and decorated by local artists, would be purchased.
“In the next month, we’re hoping to get 39 of them out so that they’re available for the summer and people can go and see them throughout the rest of the year,” said Gretchen Pearsall, Director of Strategic Communications for Peoria County.
Pearsall said the 12 bison with a home so far have been painted by a wide variety of artists, including high school students. They stand stoically at local businesses and some local landmarks.
“It’s really wonderful to see organizations coming together,” said Pearsall. “It’s really a collaborative effort all around so it’s very exciting to see them as they go out and about in the community.”
The county also recently launched a map of the bison locations called Bison Trek. Pearsall said residents can use the map to find the bison, take pictures there, check in, earn digital badges and participate in drawings to win prizes from Wildlife Prairie Park.
“It’s exciting to see the bison sculptures go on display and how each artist brought a unique vision to their design,” said Peoria County Board Chairperson James C. Dillon. “The Bison Trek digital passport is an easy and fun way to find them all.”
The bicentennial celebrations conclude in October with a celebration at the Peoria County Courthouse. Pearsall said the “block party” is still being planned.
