Crazy Horse Monument, Black Hills, South Dakota

Sitting in the Black Hills is a work in progress. The Crazy Horse Memorial began many years ago by a sculptor named Korcazk Ziolkowski. This sculptor grew up as an orphan in Boston, earning money by boxing. As a teen, he decided to become an artist. He was sought out by Lakota leaders to create a memorial to "show the white men that we have heroes, too."

Korczak died in 1982, and his family has continued the difficult process of blasting, carving, and removing rocks. Although the technology is constantly changing, it will still be many years before it is completed.

Crazy Horse is a private organization. It is not run by the government, even though there have been offers to have it government-directed, so it relies on donations, purchases, and admission fees ($27 per carload) to continue to fund the project.

The North American Indian Museum is impressive, with several artifacts from both long ago and today displayed neatly in cases and along the walls. The gift shop is extensive. There are vendors who sell their crafts.

We attended the "Legends in Light" Laser Show, which tells the story of Crazy Horse and the Lakota people. Set to music and narration, it was truly impressive.

© Cara Parker, 2009.  Photos and text may not be reproduced without the written consent of Cara Parker.