Crazy Horse

Black Hills National Forest

43 52.677 N 103 36.662 W

So, what dis we accomplish Friday? We found Spearfish Canyon that looks and feels much like New York's Adirondacks. We visited the mining museum in Lead City (ok but not great). We learned that state highways 135 and 16 heading toward Mount Rushmore are horrible tourist traps. We decided to skip Rushmore and Custer Park.

Finally, we visited the Crazy Horse Memorial. It was expensive to get in but the money was well spent. In fact, both of us think that the whole idea of the memorial (that native Americans have their own heroes and that they should be honored by all Americans) is excellent. Also, the execution of the idea is terrific. They eschew government money. And they attracted Korczak Ziolkowski, a very talented and prolific sculptor to make It his life's work. Today, Korozak's widow and 7 of their 10 children continue the work. In fact, it is hard to think of a more worthy cause to donate to.

 

My lands are where my people lie buried

- Crazy Horse