The Bucky O’Neill Monument is a significant historical statue located in Prescott, Arizona. It serves as a memorial to one of Arizona’s most colorful figures from the era of the American frontier, Buckey O’Neill. Here is a description of the monument and its namesake:

Buckey O’Neill was born in 1860 and is best remembered for his roles as a sheriff, judge, newspaperman, gambler, and politician. However, his most enduring legacy comes from his service as a Rough Rider during the Spanish-American War. As a captain in Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Rider regiment, O’Neill was known for his bravery and larger-than-life personality. His life was cut tragically short when he was killed in action during the Battle of San Juan Hill in 1898.The Bucky O’Neill Monument was created by the renowned sculptor Solon Borglum and was unveiled in 1907. The statue is a powerful tribute to O’Neill and the Rough Riders, cast in bronze and displaying O’Neill in Rough Rider uniform, mounted on his horse. The sculpture captures a moment of action, reflective of O’Neill’s dynamic and courageous character.

The monument portrays O’Neill as ready for battle, with a sense of motion and determination. His figure is depicted with a high level of detail, from the folds of his uniform to the expressive look on his face. One hand holds the reins while the other rests on his hip, as if he is surveying the battlefield and contemplating his next move.The monument not only commemorates the life and service of Bucky O’Neill but also serves as a symbol of the spirit of adventure and heroism that defined the late 19th-century American West. It stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the Spanish-American War and is a point of local pride for the residents of Prescott.

The Bucky O’Neill Monument is often included in historical tours of the area and remains an important fixture in the community, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Rough Riders and the Old West in Arizona’s collective memory.