Deadwood / Hill City Buffalo Burgers / Crazy Horse and Mt. Rushmore

Hi ~ We spent the morning in Deadwood, SD...an old western town where Wild Bill Hickcock was killed while playing poker in one of the local saloons. This was a fun little town, with entertaining history. We took a one hour tour with Alkali Ike Tours - up to Boot Hill and around town. The owner and tour guide was humorous and informative. We walked around town for a few minutes and then headed to Hill City for a famous buffalo burger at Bumpin Buffalo. The burger was delicious - much more lean than a typical hamburger (why do we call them "ham" burgers, anyway?). The waitress, Tarrah, was friendly and attentive. We cleaned our plates and would recommend this stop for anyone looking for great South Dakota cuisine. The address of this establishment is 245 Main Street, Hill City, SD. Check it out when you visit Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse.

We then headed to the Crazy Horse memorial. OMG...just amazing. We heard and read mixed reviews of this place - but we noticed those who actually made the trip were the folks who were bragging that it was well worth the trip. The entrance fee is $10 per person and that gives you a closer look at the mountain sculpture in the making, the artist's studio, a Native American museum, and a Native American craft area where local Native Americans had various booths. The artist's log home is also available for viewing. His story of dedication to this project is fascinating. The artist/sculptor, Korczak Ziolkowski, passed away in 1982; however, his wife, who still lives upstairs near their original log home and several of their ten children continue Korczak's dream of creating this beautiful monument of Crazy Horse, to honor the Native American.

We arrived at Mt. Rushmore at about 6:00 pm, giving us plenty of light to get some photos and to enjoy the structure. We stayed for a hot fudge sundae while waiting for the evening light show. The "light show" was nothing more than lighting up the monument; however, a great "Discovery Channel" video was shown and all current and veteran military men and women who were there were honored by coming on stage - receiving our applause of thanks for their service. They then participated in the lowering of the American flag. Each person was honored by being asked to give name and branch of service...there were over 150 men and women on stage. It took several minutes; however, I didn't see one person leave the stands and those who could, stood throughout the proud announcements from these American heroes.

Tomorrow we will be on the road - possibly no post - unless there is something great to pass along.

Nite~ Carol and Ken