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Source: Madonna of the Trail

Madonna of the Trail is a series of 12 identical monuments dedicated to the spirit of pioneer women in the United States. The monuments were commissioned by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) during the administration of President General Grace Lincoln Hall Brosseau. They were installed in each of the 12 states along the National Old Trails Road, which extended from Cumberland, Maryland, to Upland, California.
In 1911, the NSDAR established a committee to honor pioneer women. Initial plans called for painted mileage markers throughout the route. Those plans were later abandoned in favor of pioneer mother statues. Arlene Nichols Moss, NSDAR Commission Chairperson, was inspired by Portland, Oregon’s 1905 "Sacajawea" monument. The NSDAR commissioned sculptor August Leimbach to create the statues. The image is now owned by Kevin Karl, Leimbach's great grandson. Each statue is 10 feet high, weighs 5 tons and is made of Missouri granite. The National Old Trails Road Association (NOTR) was created to study the trails and select routes to designate. Judge (and later U.S. President) [Harry S. Truman] led the NOTR and spoke at the first monument dedication in 1928.
The Madonna of the Trail monuments were intended to provide a symbol of the courage and faith of the women whose strength and love aided so greatly in conquering the wilderness and establishing permanent homes. Dedicated in 1928 and 1929, the twelve statues became sources of local pride. Through the continuing efforts of local and national groups, all are currently in good condition and on display.