A Bronze Tribute to Porter Rockwell by Sam Acevedo

A new bronze sculpture of Orrin Porter Rockwell captures the legendary frontiersman in breathtaking detail. Created by sculptor Sam Acevedo, this piece reflects an extraordinary level of historical accuracy and reverence for Rockwell’s larger-than-life persona. From the custom-cast octagon-barreled Colt to the gaiters, spurs, and even a replica of Rockwell’s own knife, this artwork is as much a history lesson as it is a work of art.

Historically Grounded, Artistically Refined

Unlike many loose or impressionistic interpretations, Acevedo’s style is rooted in classical realism. Every detail of the sculpture has been meticulously researched. When sculpting Porter Rockwell, Sam visited the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum in Provo to view his actual Amish preacher’s hat—complete with two arrow holes.

The Colt pistol featured in the statue is an exact replica of Rockwell’s known firearm: a revolver with a distinctive octagonal barrel. Sam even sculpted Rockwell’s knife with an alligator handle, based on the actual piece provided by one of his descendants. The leather gaiters and 1840s-era spurs are true to the style of Rockwell’s time, as are the period-appropriate garments, informed by Dr. Carma De Jong Anderson, a PhD and renowned clothing historian for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gallery

A Sculptor with Deep Pioneer Roots

Sam Acevedo was commissioned to create this sculpture around 2010 by a gentleman in Alpine, Utah, who was writing a book on Rockwell. Tragically, the patron was injured in a serious accident and never completed the book. Nonetheless, the project served as a catalyst for what would become one of Sam’s favorite works.

Sam’s personal passion for early Church history runs deep. Her ancestor Emanuel Masters Murphy was baptized in 1836. Another ancestor—McBride—was among the first riders to reach the stranded Willie or Martin handcart company. A female ancestor of hers was also one of the first to aid Joseph Smith after the tar and feathering incident in Ohio.

Limited Edition

Only 35 total castings of this sculpture will ever be produced. To date, eight have been sold, making this both a rare and historically meaningful collector’s piece.

If you’re interested in learning more about this sculpture or would like to acquire one of the remaining editions, please use the contact form on this website and we’ll put you directly in contact with the artist.

All information and images provided courtesy of Steve and Sam Acevedo.