Madonna of the Trail 

Vandalia, IL 62471

Sculpted by August Leimbach of St. Louis, this is one of 12 large statues along the Old National Road, honoring pioneer mothers. The 18 foot tall Madonna of the Trail depicts a pioneer woman holding her baby, while her young son clings to her skirts. Made of algonite stone, the monument has the warm, pink color of Missouri native granite. Dedicated on October 26, 1928, the statue sits on the ground of the Old State Capitol.