The Crazy Horse Memorial is a Native American monument located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was started in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and his wife Ruth, who were both of Polish descent. The monument is dedicated to the culture, tradition and living heritage of the Lakota people, the Native Americans of the Great Plains. The memorial is intended to be the world’s largest sculpture. When completed, it will be 563 feet long and 563 feet high.
History of Crazy Horse Monument
The Crazy Horse Monument was first proposed by Lakota elder Henry Standing Bear in 1939, who requested that sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski create a monument to honor the proud spirit of Native American culture and heritage. After years of planning, the memorial was finally started in 1948. The project is still ongoing and has become a family affair, with Ziolkowski’s children and grandchildren continuing the work.
What Can You See at Crazy Horse Monument?
The Crazy Horse Memorial is more than just a monument. It’s a living, breathing tribute to Native American culture and heritage. Visitors can explore the memorial, which includes a museum, a cultural center, and a Native American village. They can also watch artists and craftsmen at work and take part in cultural events.
What Does It Cost to Visit Crazy Horse Monument?
The answer to this question depends on what you want to do at the memorial. Admission to the monument is free, however, there are additional fees for certain activities.
Admission Fees
Admission to the monument is free, however, there is a $10 parking fee for cars and a $20 parking fee for RVs.
Mountain Carving Tour
The Mountain Carving Tour is a guided tour of the memorial that takes visitors up to the mountain to view the carving in progress. The tour is $10 per person.
Museum and Cultural Center Admission
Admission to the museum and cultural center is $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 6-12.
Native American Village Admission
Admission to the Native American village is $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 6-12.
Other Fees
The memorial also offers a variety of events, such as concerts, powwows, and art shows. Fees for these events vary.
What Are the Benefits of Visiting Crazy Horse Monument?
Visiting the Crazy Horse Monument is a great way to experience Native American culture and learn about the history of the Lakota people. Visitors can explore the memorial, take part in cultural events, and watch artists and craftsmen at work. The memorial also offers educational programs for all ages.
Are There Other Nearby Attractions?
Yes, there are several nearby attractions that make for a great day trip.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is a nearby National Memorial located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It features the 60-foot-tall granite faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore the memorial grounds and take part in ranger-led programs.
Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is located nearby in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It is home to one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and prairie dogs. Visitors can explore the cave system, take part in ranger-led programs, and hike the park’s trails.
Custer State Park
Custer State Park is located nearby in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and mountain goats. Visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty, take part in ranger-led programs, and hike the park’s trails.
Conclusion
Visiting the Crazy Horse Monument is a great way to experience Native American culture and learn about the history of the Lakota people. Admission to the monument is free, however, there are additional fees for certain activities. There are also several nearby attractions that make for a great day trip, such as Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, and Custer State Park.
Crazy Horse Monument is a unique and fascinating memorial that is well worth visiting. The admission fees are reasonable and the experience is both educational and enjoyable. So if you are ever in the Black Hills of South Dakota, be sure to take some time to visit the Crazy Horse Monument and explore the nearby attractions.