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Grandma Gatewood Returns to the Appalachian Trail: Life-Size Statues to Honor Trailblazing Hiker and Inspire Future Generations
Grandma Gatewood became a legend in 1955 at the age of 67 (PRESS RELEASE_ National- February 24, 2026) Decades after her legendary trek, the indomitable spirit of Emma “Grandma” Gatewood is set to inspire hikers once again as two life-size bronze statues are commissioned to celebrate her extraordinary legacy. Gatewood, the first woman to solo…
Read MoreIt’s Scanning Day!
Today, artist Bridgette Mongeon completed the 3D scan of the small maquette of Grandma Gatewood, creating a digital model that paves the way for the next steps in this inspiring journey. You may recall that she was also working on a sculpture of Mother Boo in the studio, and was able to integrate the scanning…
Read MoreA Minister and a Hiker…
What connection does a retired female minister and educator in Lake Charles, Louisiana, have to a statue of historical hiking legend Grandma Gatewood? The sculptor of the Grandma Gatewood Project, Bridgette Mongeon is currently busy with multiple commissions this year as the committee is looking for the necessary funds to advance the Grandma Gatewood project.…
Read MoreIn loving Memory of Grandma Gatewood’s Great Granddaughter
In loving memory of Marjorie Gilliam Wood, October 1, 1956- August 2025 the great-granddaughter of Grandma Gatewood and a remarkable supporter of the Grandma Gatewood Statue project. A passionate historian and genealogist, she embraced her family legacy with pride. Our conversations were filled with insights, as she advocated for the statue project with unwavering enthusiasm.…
Read MoreWhat is Happening With The Statue Project?
It may seem like not much is happening with the Grandma Gatewood project, but we want to assure you that we are still actively moving forward. In a fundraising committee, responsibilities often rest on just a few individuals, and when they are pulled in various directions, it can seem quiet on the surface. However, behind…
Read MoreRecent Media on the Grandma Gatewood Statue Project.
Many thanks to those who are helping us promote the Grandma Gatewood Project. If you see press or create a blog post, please let us know. We want to recognize you and the article. CBS 19 News Project underway to honor ‘Grandma’ Gatewood August 6, 2024 Charlottesville, VA Blue Ridge Outdoors Two Statues Will honor Grandma…
Read MoreGrandma Gatewood Statue Project on PBS Radio Ohio
Thank you PBS Radio Ohio for creating such a wonderful segment about Grandma Gatewood and the statue project. Great Interview with Paul Maxwell, from Ohio Valley Memory Gardens in Gallipolis, Ohio, who started this project Give a listen. Don’t forget to donate, and share about this project.
Read MoreA Hiking Stick, History, and Love of Family
From The Sculptor’s Studio Many like to see my posts because it feels like they are watching over the shoulders of the artists. Welcome to my studio. Connections—There is no doubt that I feel connected to Grandma Gatewood. Our connection comes from our love of the woods and hiking, and I hope from our desire…
Read MorePress Release: Bringing Grandma Gatewood Back to Ohio And The Appalachian Trail
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 1, 2024 Grandma Gatewood’s story, spirit and influence in the hiking community are incredible. Now, a team of volunteers and an artist are trying to bring her back to her home state of Ohio and the Appalachian trail in two life-size bronzes. Grandma Gatewood is Coming Home to Ohio Fifty years after…
Read MoreGrandma Gatewood Statue Project | Podcast Interviews With Appalachia Meets World
Podcast hosts on Appalachia Meets World, create two podcasts on Grandma Gatewood. One about her story, the other about the statues. Will and Neil from Appalachia Meets World are two brothers born and raised in the coal fields of central Appalachia. A podcast about place and perspective, they talk about life in Appalachia and venture…
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