Pioneer Memorial and Exodus to Greatness
Exodus to Greatness monument
The bronze relief plaque encased in stone was dedicated in 1980 on the banks of the Mississippi River not far from where the Saints embarked on their journey west. The Pioneer Memorial pavilion was erected in 1996 over the existing “Exodus to Greatness” monument. It includes the names of several thousand pioneers who died before reaching their destination.
Eyes Westward Monument
This bronze statue depicts Joseph Smith standing with Brigham Young on the banks of the Mississippi River. Brigham is holding a rolled map of the western United States. Joseph holds out a hand to direct Brigham’s gaze to the Rocky Mountains, which Joseph had seen in vision. This is an artistic interpretation of the way that Brigham Young carried out Joseph Smith’s prophecy of leading Saints westward. It can be a powerful visual symbol of the transfer of leadership from one prophet to another.