In 1926, twelve sculptors were invited to enter models in a competition to honor the pioneer woman: James Earle Fraser, Hermon Atkins MacNeil, Mahonri MacIntosh Young, A. Sterling Calder, Jo Davidson, John Gregory, F. Lynn Jenkins, Bryant Baker, Wheeler Williams, Maurice Sterne, Mario J. Korbel and Arthur Lee. Upon completion of the models, the bronzes were sent across the nation and $750,000 people voted for their favorite piece. Will Rogers gave the dedication speech at the unveling of Bryant Baker's model which was chosen by popular acclaim. The monument, which stands in Ponca City, Oklahoma is inscribed "In appreciation of the heroic character of the woman who braved the dangers and endured the hardships incident to the daily life of the pioneer and homesteader in this country." (Broder, p. 276)