WP dedicates guitar carving to Porter Wagoner

A new wood carving has been dedicated to perhaps the most famous person from West Plains. On Wednesday, a crowd gathered as the city dedicated a roughly ten-foot-tall sculpture of the guitar featured on the cover of Wagoner's final studio album, “Wagonmaster,” released in 2007.

 

West Plains Mayor Mike Topliff and Tourism Manager Melissa Wharton spoke at the dedication. The mayor thanked Wharton and her team at the Ozarks Heritage Center. “Your dedication to the beautification of this space in preserving the spirit of Porter Wagoner is evident in every detail,” said Topliff. “Your hard work ensures that Porter's legacy continues to thrive in West Plains. In that, we are truly grateful.” He also thanked the sculptor, Jason Morton of Eagle Ridge Chainsaw Carvings. “This guitar, with its intricate details shows your detailed craftsmanship. It's more than just a carving. It's a tribute to a legend and a testament to your incredible talent.”

 

Wharton spoke on the history of Porter Wagoner, how he was discovered, and his life and death. She said that a Porter Wagoner Trail has been created for people who would like to retrace some of his steps in West Plains. Information on the trail will be available in the 2025 Explore West Plains guidebook.

 

The carving was based on a guitar designed by Greg Rich. The “Wagonmaster” sculpture is not the only project Morton is working on for the city. He is also working on a sculpture that will pay tribute to Preacher Roe and Bill Virdon, two famous West Plainsians known for their Major League Baseball exploits with the St. Louis Cardinals and other teams.

 

Before and after the dedication, Dennis “Haxaw” Bottoms performed country music for the crowd. Bottoms used to tour and perform with Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton. Inside the Ozarks Heritage Center, visitors can view some of the nudie suits worn by Porter Wagoner and a mural of famous people from the city.