Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer
Facts and practical information
The Crazy Horse Memorial, located in the Black Hills near Custer, South Dakota, is a monument of profound historical and cultural significance. This colossal mountain carving, dedicated to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, stands as a testament to the spirit and endurance of Native American culture. The monument was commissioned by Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear and brought to life by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948.
Unlike Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial is a privately funded project and is still a work in progress. When completed, it is expected to be the world's largest mountain carving at 641 feet long and 563 feet high. The monument's mission is to honor the culture, tradition, and living heritage of North American Indians.
Visitors to the site can explore the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Educational and Cultural Center, and the sculptor's studio. There are also opportunities to watch the ongoing carving process from the viewing veranda. The memorial hosts several special events throughout the year, including laser light shows and Native American cultural celebrations.
South Dakota