Overview Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, located in the Black Hills of Keystone, South Dakota. The colossal sculpture features the faces of four U.S. presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—symbolizing the birth, growth, development, and preservation of the United States.
History Conceived by historian Doane Robinson in the 1920s, the
monument was designed to promote tourism in South Dakota. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum
was commissioned to bring the idea to life. Work began on October 4, 1927, and
continued for 14 years, with Borglum and over 400 workers carving the faces out
of the granite mountainside. Borglum passed away in 1941, and his son Lincoln
Borglum oversaw the final stages of the project. Mount Rushmore was completed
on October 31, 1941.
The
Four Presidents
- George Washington (1732–1799): Chosen to represent the birth of the
nation, Washington was the first president and a Founding Father.
- Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826): Jefferson symbolizes the growth of the
country, known for drafting the Declaration of Independence and
facilitating the Louisiana Purchase.
- Theodore Roosevelt (1858–1919): Roosevelt represents development, credited
for his role in the Panama Canal construction and championing conservation
efforts.
- Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865): Lincoln stands for the preservation of
the Union during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery.
Construction
Details The sculpture, standing 60 feet
tall for each face, was created using dynamite, jackhammers, and precision
drilling. Over 450,000 tons of rock were removed during the process. The
challenging project required innovation and resilience, as workers braved
dangerous conditions and harsh weather.
Visitor
Experience Mount Rushmore attracts over two
million visitors annually. Highlights include:
- Presidential Trail: A half-mile loop offering close-up views of the
monument.
- Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center: An educational facility with exhibits about the
history and construction of Mount Rushmore.
- Evening Lighting Ceremony: A nightly program illuminating the monument, often
accompanied by patriotic presentations.
- Sculptor's Studio: A display of tools and scale models used during the
carving process.
Surrounding
Attractions
- Custer State Park: A scenic wildlife reserve nearby with hiking trails,
lakes, and bison herds.
- Crazy Horse Memorial: A tribute to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, located
just 17 miles from Mount Rushmore.
- Badlands National Park: Known for its striking landscapes and rock
formations, approximately an hour's drive away.
Preservation
and Legacy Mount Rushmore remains a symbol of
American history, unity, and ingenuity. While the monument draws admiration, it
also sparks dialogue regarding its cultural impact, particularly in relation to
Native American history and the Black Hills, which hold sacred significance for
the Lakota Sioux.
Plan
Your Visit
- Location: Keystone, South Dakota
- Entrance Fee: No fee for entry; parking fees apply.
- Best Time to Visit: May through September for ideal weather and full
programming.
- Accessibility: Facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with
disabilities.
Whether
marveling at its craftsmanship or reflecting on its history, Mount Rushmore
National Memorial continues to captivate and inspire visitors from around the
world.