The Mackay Statues is seen in a profile showing its eastern side with snow-covered Sierras in the distance. The Mackay Statue was placed in front of the Mackay School of Mines during its opening in 1908. Clarence Mackay, a great benefactor during the beginning years of the 20th century, had the statue made in honor of his father, John Mackay. The statue was created by up-and-coming sculpture artist at the time Gutzon Borglum, best known for Mt. Rushmore. The statue was situated so that Mackay’s face is looking toward Virginia City where he made his fortune in the Comstock Mine.