The Pioneer Monument honors the emigrants who followed the Truckee River route into California and stands at one of the most historic sites in emigrant history. Nearby, during the winter of 1846-1847, nearly half of the Donner Party died after being trapped by snow, cold, and lack of food. Unveiled in 1918, the monument was funded by the Donner Monument Committee, led by the Native Sons of the Golden West, which hired artist John McQuarrie. Instead of portraying a single man, McQuarrie chose to depict a family as a representation of the strength and grit of early settlers.