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Troll.

The Troll

Field review by the editors.

Wichita, Kansas

The Troll first appeared in May 2007, chained to some pipes beneath a large sidewalk grate near the Arkansas River. He was created by local sculptor Constance Ernatt, stands seven feet tall, and weighs 200 pounds -- although it's difficult to appreciate his size in his underground prison. He is not built like a tank (like other trolls) but is actually kind of spindly, with green skin, a bald head, and big ears. He looks more like a goblin, or maybe an oversized, evil Yoda.

The troll inhabits an abandoned outflow junction formerly used by a nearby energy plant, allowing the city to keep it as an art installation rather than have to pay to dig it up. Morons broke into the troll's lair in 2013, stealing his arm and his bird skull necklace. Constance removed, repaired, and returned him to his lair in April 2014, and Wichita has promised better security to keep the troll safe.

The Troll

Address:
777 W. Central Ave., Wichita, KS
Directions:
Along a walking path behind and just to the right of the old Westar power plant building, which is on the south side of W. Central Ave. on the east bank of the Arkansas River. Park in the lot behind the building, then walk to the right. You'll see the path and the big grate in it. The troll is visible beneath that grate, and also from the side, through a wall grate visible from another path that parallels the river. Both paths are part of a large trail system with its own cross-river bridges, so you can park in other places and simply walk over to the Troll.
Admission:
Free
Save to My Sights

Nearby Offbeat Places

Keeper of the Plains: Ring of FireKeeper of the Plains: Ring of Fire, Wichita, KS - < 1 mi.
Stonehenge Jr.Stonehenge Jr., Wichita, KS - < 1 mi.
Boy and the BootBoy and the Boot, Wichita, KS - < 1 mi.
In the region:
World's Tallest Mennonite, Newton, KS - 25 mi.

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