“The Eagle Has Landed”: Public invited to view new bald eagle sculpture at Boyd Island
July 5, 2026
The Sanctuary at Boyd Island received a new permanent resident in June 2026. Just in time for the 250th birthday of the United States, an incredible sculpture of a bald eagle was installed on the island.
The eagle is one of three new sculptures created by award-winning sculptor Reneé Bemis. The eagle sculpture is joined by a family of deer grazing, and two raccoons masked and ready for adventure. This unique island is a jewel in the 3RVRS region.
The Sanctuary at Boyd Island, located just across a scenic footbridge on the Saluda Riverwalk, is a project funded by the Darnall W. & Susan F. Boyd Foundation. The island is part of the City of Columbia’s Three Rivers Greenway and is located at the confluence of the Broad, Saluda and Congaree rivers. The island is home to other animal sculptures by Bemis in their natural habitats. A large pavilion, created and installed by the Stuyck Company, and unique granite and steel picnic tables also share space on the island with more than 75 plant species.
Bemis’s sculptures have earned her recognition and numerous awards throughout the United States. Utilizing the ancient lost wax method, her creations are initially created in clay, then cast in bronze. Though self-taught, she has the natural and specialized ability to balance the likenesses of humans and animals in a single conceptual design. On her website, she says that she loves “creating artwork that people are moved by, pieces that they can relate to.”
The public is invited to see these new sculptures and enjoy this picturesque island. Parking is available at 360 Candi Lane in Columbia. For more information about sculptor Reneé Bemis, visit reneebemis.com. For more information about the important work of the Darnall W. & Susan F. Boyd Foundation, visit boydfoundationcolumbia.org.
About the River Alliance
The River Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, promoting and enhancing the rivers of the Midlands through strategic planning, community collaboration and stewardship.
