ERIE DINOSAUR PARK
Artist Robert Dorris
In February 2014 the family of Robert Dorris donated 12 metal sculptures designed and made by Robert Dorris. Robert Dorris was a WWII Navy Veteran. In his retirement he was inspired to make the sculptures after seeing the dinosaur displays at the Smithsonian. Mr. Dorris made the sculptures using scrap metal, primarily automobile parts, ranging in size from a few inches to 30 feet in length. Each sculpture represents an actual dinosaur or reptile. The sculptures are well-known locally and have been described in local newspapers, website, and local TV stations. The sculptures are on private property and not accessible to the community. The Dorris family goal is to share these sculptures with the community and have the sculptures be an asset to their home community.
Erie, Kansas
The Erie Community Foundation was formed in 2007 to promote the betterment of the City of Erie and surrounding community. Erie is a rural community with a population of 1150. The town formed this organization to encourage cooperation between community partners so resources can be consolidated to ensure the best use of them. This project has already brought several partners together to support this project. This foundation has commitment from the City of Erie, Pittsburg State University, Erie High School, Erie Chamber of Commerce and others.
The Foundation believes this project will be an asset to the town of Erie. We believe this project will bring visitors to Erie and enhance other attractions in the town; such as the Erie Museum. It is planned to donate documents, pictures and videos about the sculptures and direct interested people to the museum for more information. Currently the museum has an average of 850 visitors a year. It is the Foundation’s hope that this will increase the traffic in the museum and exposing visitors to the other interesting facts about Erie. Erie is known for its Old Soldiers and Sailors Reunion. It has been continuously held for 140 years. The addition of the sculptures would add another attraction and enhance reunion activities. The Reunion brings 4100 visitors to the town.