World’s Largest CONCRETE Totem Pole

After serving in the U.S. Army in the early 1900s, Ed Galloway discovered a unique passion—carving massive sculptures from trees. His talent did not go unnoticed, and in 1914, philanthropist Charles Page recognized his skill, offering him a position as an arts teacher at the Children’s Home Orphanage in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. However, it wasn’t until his retirement in 1937 that Galloway truly began his life’s work.  
Galloway settled just east of Route 66 in Claremore, where he embarked on his most ambitious project—the massive concrete totem pole. Constructed using an incredible amount of modern materials, the project required 6 tons of steel, 28 tons of cement, and 100 tons of sand and rock. After years of dedication, the towering 90-foot-tall totem pole was completed in 1948. At its base, a large turtle-shaped foundation honors Native American creation myths. The entire structure is decorated with hand-carved and painted portraits, symbols, and animals, showcasing Galloway’s admiration for Indigenous art and culture.

On the same property, Galloway built the now-famous eleven-sided Fiddle House, which is structurally supported by numerous totem poles. Inside, it housed his collection of handcrafted fiddles, along with handmade furniture and sculptures of every U.S. president up to JFK.

Over time, more totem poles were added to the property, along with animal-shaped gateposts and picnic tables featuring uniquely crafted animal-form chairs. Galloway worked tirelessly on the park until his passing in 1962. After his death, the site fell into disrepair, with many pieces vandalized, stolen, or damaged by the elements.

By the 1990s, the Kansas Grassroots Art Association stepped in to restore the park, repairing and repainting the original sculptures and transforming the Fiddle House into a museum. In 1999, the park was added to the National Register of Historic Places, securing its historical significance. Restoration efforts continued for years, finally reaching completion in 2020.

Just a few miles east of Route 66, Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park is a must-see destination for anyone traveling the Mother Road. Open daily from dawn until dusk, the park offers a unique glimpse into one man’s artistic vision. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged to help preserve this historic landmark for future generations.