Through the many statues commissioned by Col. John Hicks and the pamphlet that he directed and wrote (published posthumously), civilians glean a better understanding of the city’s purpose in erecting a Chief Oshkosh monument. Rather than working with Menominee tribal leaders to determine the best public monument to honor Chief Oshkosh’s life and Menominee history, Chief Oshkosh’s story becomes a conduit for a movement that prioritizes beautifying public spaces rather than educating the public. In his pamphlet detailing the main commissions he had done in Oshkosh, Hicks advertises that “there are in Oshkosh, a number of sculptural works that not only give pleasure and inspiration to those now living here, but will be a source of joy and stir
