Trail of the Whispering Giants and Chief Little Owl

The coastal towns of Bethany Beach, Delaware, and Ocean City, Maryland, are well known for their serene beaches, quaint communities, and fascinating histories. The Whispering Giant in Ocean City and the Chief Little Owl totem pole in Bethany Beach, however, are two distinctive monuments that provide a deeper link to the area's rich cultural past among the scenic shorelines and bustling boardwalks. Despite their differences, both monuments are striking representations of Native American ancestry that shed light on the Eastern Shore's past.

Whispering Giant of Ocean City: An Ode to the Assateague Indian

Part of a nationwide series of sculptures by artist Peter Toth, the majestic "Whispering Giant" is located in the center of Ocean City's Inlet Park. Standing more than twenty feet tall, this unique statue honors the Assateague Indian tribe, who were the first people to live in the coastal region. The Ocean City statue is one of over seventy carvings, all around North America, that are a part of Toth's "Trail of the Whispering Giants," and are all devoted to recognizing the history and culture of Native American tribes.

The Assateague Indian tribe coexisted peacefully with the land long before European settlers came. They are well-known for their relationship to the island's wild horses. With finely detailed carvings etched into the wood that highlight the tribe's fortitude, resiliency, and wisdom, The Whispering Giant brilliantly conveys this strong bond with the natural world. Like his other carvings, Toth's work on this statue combines a historical narrative with a visual tribute. Reflecting on the cultural significance of the Assateague people, whose influence is still felt along the Maryland shore, The Giant stands as a subdued yet powerful memorial. In spite of the vibrant energy that surrounds Ocean City's beaches and boardwalks, the Whispering Giant provides a moment of pause, enabling visitors to engage profoundly with the history of the area.

The Nanticoke Tribe and Chief Little Owl  - Bethany Beach

The totem pole of Chief Little Owl is another remarkable example of Native American heritage located in Bethany Beach, Delaware, just along the shore. This statue is from the same "Whispering Giants" series that Peter Toth sculpted in 1976. But it has a special meaning of its own, honoring Chief Little Owl and the Nanticoke Tribe, who formerly lived in Delaware. The Nanticoke people played a significant role in Delaware's early history, and one of the tribe's most well-known members, Chief Little Owl, stands for wisdom, leadership, and the deep connections that exist between the tribe and the land. The totem pole, located in the heart of Bethany Beach at the corner of Garfield Parkway and Pennsylvania Avenue, has become an iconic symbol for the town, standing proudly as a reminder of the area’s Native American roots. Toth's creative vision effectively represents the spirit of Native American culture. With its intricate carvings and striking presence, the totem pole has become a beloved landmark in the town, offering both locals and visitors a glimpse into the region’s Indigenous history.