Marvin the Moose
by Johnny Shipman
As you stroll through Downtown Round Rock’s Centennial Plaza, keep an eye out for a new face in town—Marvin the Moose!
Standing proudly near the front of the Baca Center, Marvin brings a whimsical and welcoming charm to the plaza. Crafted from welded steel and standing approximately 7 feet tall, this playful sculpture is the creation of Texas artist Johnny Shipman.
Shipman is no stranger to Round Rock. A longtime supporter of our Public Art program, he was one of its earliest contributors and continues to leave his creative mark on the city.
When asked why he named the moose Marvin, Shipman simply smiled and said, “It just seemed like the right name.” We couldn’t agree more.
Marvin the Moose is more than just public art—he’s a fun, friendly symbol of the community spirit that makes Round Rock unique. Come say hello!
Chisholm Trail Sculptures
By Jim Thomas
Located at Chisholm Trail Crossing Park in Round Rock, these powerful bronze sculptures bring to life the spirit of the Old West and honor the people and stories that shaped the region.
All pieces were designed and sculpted by nationally recognized artist Jim Thomas, whose deep understanding of both art and science gives his work exceptional depth and authenticity.
About the Artist
Jim Thomas is a nationally published sculptor and a respected member of several professional art associations, including TSOS, AArC, and DFAC. He is a three-time Gold Medalist of the Texas Cowboy Artist Association.
With a background in earth sciences, chemistry, and metallurgy, plus over 41 years of experience collaborating with architects, engineers, and public art administrators, Thomas brings a rare combination of artistry and technical skill to his work in sculpture, foundry, and metal fabrication.
The Sculptures at Chisholm Trail Crossing
“The Bell Steer” (2003)
The first sculpture in the series, commissioned through a grant from Dell. On cattle drives, the lead steer wore a bell to help guide the herd—this piece honors that important tradition.
“The Pioneer Woman”
Dedicated to Harriett “Hattie” Cluck, one of the first known women to travel the Chisholm Trail. Commissioned by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Peckham, the statue was modeled after Sissy Peckham, who posed for the artist.
“The Pioneer Boy”
Commissioned in honor of Emmett Cluck, a five-year-old who traveled the trail with his family. Donated by Ruth Koughan, with her grandson Riley Koughan serving as the model.
“The Resting Steer”
Honors Oscar Edward Quick and Eugene Olof Quick, whose “OQ” brand was registered in 1891. Gifted by Marjorie and Don Quick in tribute to their father and grandfather, both proud Round Rock citizens.
“Goin’ to Water”
Commissioned by Edward Reyes Torres, Mary Zordan Torres, and Gloria Torres Zamarripa, this longhorn sculpture is a nod to their parents’ agricultural roots and ancestral frontier life. It features the Torres Reyes registered brand.
Visit the Trail
These sculptures are more than art—they’re a tribute to the grit, spirit, and heritage of early Texans. Visit Chisholm Trail Crossing Park to experience these works up close and walk through a piece of living history.
Terry Jones’ “Lost Soul”
Using reclaimed materials, this artist created a sculptural tribute to honor Veterans. Learn more about the artist: www.terryjonessculpture.com.
Pokey Park’s “Sympatico”
This charming bronze artwork emerges from the rose garden at Prete Plaza. Learn more about this artist: www.pokeypark.com.
Sun McColgin’s “Third Drop”
McColgin’s artwork elegantly graces the corner of East Main Street and South Lampasas St. Learn more about this Texas artist: www.sunmccolgin.com
“Angle” Travis Seeger
We’ve just placed a new sculpture that you can enjoy both day and night (it has a lighting feature!) in Centennial Plaza! Look for Travis Seeger’s “Angle,” a beautiful sphere along the South Brown Street side of Centennial Plaza.
Of his process and purpose, the artist shares:
“I create metal sculptures out of a curiosity for how shapes can be organized and transformed. Using commonly available structural steel pieces in multiples, I aim to create forms that transcend our expectations of their individual parts. I focus on simplicity, removing excess to reveal the core of each piece, with a focus on exploring how materials can be employed in unexpected ways.”
Learn more about the artist Travis Seeger: https://travisseegerart.com
