Wall Drug has a fascinating history. Wall Drug Store got its start with the promise of free ice water – 1931. Original owner Ted Husted got the idea to offer free ice water to travelers to break up their long trip across South Dakota (and to get them to buy stuff at Wall Drug!). It turned free ice water into a million-dollar idea with a little determination, quick thinking and a lot of signs. More than 2 million visitors a year stop here for a meal or activity, 5 cent coffee, and ice water – which is still free.Here is one of the many Wall Drug highway signs we saw on the way to Wall.Here is what you see when you enter the main entrance. You could spend all day here touring the shops and displays.The Cafe at lunchtime is very busy.Wall Drug’s famous barbecue sandwich.Also, their famous hot roast beef sandwich. This was the best hot beef sandwich I have ever had!Wall Drug also has a chapel.And this sculpture can be yours for only $22,000!
Mt. Roosevelt, named for President Theodore Roosevelt.The Friendship Tower Mount Roosevelt Memorial.Deadwood resident Seth Bullock met the 26-year-old Theodore Roosevelt in 1884, shortly after Roosevelt moved out west. They became lifelong friends. When Roosevelt died in January 1919, Bullock commissioned this monument which was completed in July 1919. Bullock died in September 1919, and is buried in Deadwood’s Mt. Moriah cemetery on a high hill that had an unimpeded view of Mt. Roosevelt. If you ever have a chance, the story of their friendship is a pretty neat read.Not that many steps, but they are narrow and pretty steep.Views of the Black Hills from the top of the tower.Beautiful aspen trees.
Tatanka Story of the Bison Museum is the brainchild of Kevin Costner, who is its benefactor. The movie Dances With Wolves was filmed in numerous sites throughout the area.These are costumes that were used in Dances With Wolves.This is the third-largest bronze sculpture in the world. It depicts an Indian buffalo jump.View of the Black Hills.
This is THE Deadwood!Grave of Wild Bill HickokGrave of Calamity Jane, who wished to be buried next to Wild Bill Hickok (and she was!)DeadwoodThe Historic Adams House, built in 1892, this Queen Anne-style home is well-known for its oak interiors, hand-painted canvas wall coverings, stained-glass windows, modern 19th century plumbing, electricity, telephone service, and original furnishings. The original owner, W.E. Adams ran a successful grocery store in Deadwood, and also served 6 terms as Deadwood’s mayor. He died in 1934.This is the saloon where Wild Bill Hickok was shot and killed in 1876 by Jack McCall.Called the “dead man’s hand”, two black 8s and two black aces were the hand that Hickok was holding when he was shot.Dead man’s hand display.Hickok was killed downstairs here.Hickok’s assassin Jack McCall was captured here in 1876.Wild West Shootout skit in the Main Street.In Deadwood, our last night with Mary Jean’s good friends Pat and Rolland.Old Deadwood’s Main Street Old Deadwood’s Main Street
Spearfish Canyon is in the midst of the Black Hills. Incredible scenery as your drive down the 20+ mile highway.This is Bridal Veil Falls. When we were there the falls were barely a trickle, so the stream is pretty dry for now.The Devil’s BathtubKissing RocksSpearfish FallsRoughlock FallsEnclosed canyon!
