York was born a slave to William Clark of Lewis & Clark fame. He crossed the continent to the Oregon coast as a full partner in the “Corps of Discovery” expedition. No images of him exist. Little about his life is known.

After dark on Friday, February 19, 2021, a sculptor from Portland, Oregon (who has chosen to remain anonymous for now) installed a monumental bust of York in Mt. Tabor Park. It was mounted on the pedestal previously occupied by Harvey Scott, a post-Civil War editor of The Oregonian. The sculpture of Scott was removed by protestors last fall.

Several things about this appearance of York are worthy of note. First, it was a totally stealth operation. The artist created and installed the sculpture without permission, permits, or sanctions by the City of Portland, Parks and Recreation or anyone else. Second, the sculpture honors a Black American which only a small portion of public sculptures do. Third, it is an exceptionally well rendered bust.

I salute the unknown artist for his courage and commitment. It is no small project to mount a 40” bust on an existing 9’ pedestal and include a plaque – all done under the cover of darkness.

Adena Long, Director of Portland Parks & Recreation, described the sculpture as "a complete surprise," but says that if the monument is determined safe for public viewing, it will remain in place, at least temporarily. (OregonLive)

That’s a smart decision considering the impact Black Lives Matter protests had on Portland last year.

This project is, in my opinion, art of the highest order. The artist, seeking no one’s permission, responds to opportunity with an elegant piece honoring a remarkable person and installs it in a highly visible location. Congratulations whoever you are. I would love to meet you!