Stolen statue of Native American ballerina was sold in pieces for scrap, OK museum says

The stolen statue of one of Oklahoma’s most distinguished Native American dancers was found in pieces at a recycling center, according to the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum. It had been sold for scrap.

Police described the Marjorie Tallchief statue as “hacked up” — and museum officials say the thief sold those pieces for about $250 after sawing the figure off its base.

Some of the recovered pieces include her torso and tutu, as seen in “heartbreaking photos” shared by the historical society on Facebook. Other pieces remain missing.

“We are devastated but hopeful for apprehension and more answers to come,” the society said on May 2, a few days after the statue was stolen from the Tulsa Historical Society.

The statue of Marjorie Tallchief was one of five bronze figures celebrating “Oklahoma’s renowned American Indian ballerinas” in The Vintage Garden. Alongside her statue were dancers Yvonne Chouteau, Rosella Hightower, Moscelyne Larkin and Maria Tallchief.

Together, they made up the Five Moons.

“When these dancers began their careers, Europeans dominated ballet,” the society says on its website. “These women, due to their talent, dedication and determination, went to the top of their field and brought recognition to Oklahoma and Native American artistry. Each sculpture depicts the ballerinas in the ballet she considered to be her signature piece.”

The statues, crafted by local artists Monte England and Gary Henson, were a gift to the museum, according to its website.

“England worked on two sculptures before his death in 2005, at which time Henson completed the unfinished project,” officials said.

The museum says it reached out to Henson regarding the damage, and officials say he had a quick response — “I can do this!”

“I can bring her back to life,” Henson said, according to the historical society.

If he is unable to restore the statue with the existing pieces and molds, the museum says Henson will create a replica of Marjorie Tallchief.

The Tulsa Historical Society & Museum created a GoFundMe to help cover the costs of its insurance deductible and enhanced security for the Five Moons.

Police have not identified a suspect in the statue theft as of May 3.

This story was originally published May 3, 2022 at 4:50 PM with the headline "Stolen statue of Native American ballerina was sold in pieces for scrap, OK museum says."