Keystone, SD – Gold Mining, Presidential History, and Carrie Ingalls
Learn about gold mining at the “Home of Mount Rushmore” and truly a “City of Gold.” The quaint town of Keystone is steeped in gold mining history.
The “Home of Mount Rushmore” and truly a “City of Gold,” the quaint town of Keystone is steeped in gold mining history. It’s also just two miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
A gold-mining boomtown in the late 1800s, Keystone became one of the richest gold-mining districts in the Black Hills.
Later, from 1927 to 1941, Keystone became the location of the monumental carving of Mount Rushmore by Gutzon Borglum. It was also the adult home of Carrie Ingalls of Little House on the Prairie fame. You can see some of her collectibles at the Keystone Historical Museum, which also showcases displays about mining history.
With all this to offer, who needs more? But there is a lot more. There are historic and presidential museums where you can learn the history of Mount Rushmore, Gutzon Borglum, United States presidents, Keystone, and Carrie Ingalls.
Keystone has an alpine slide and tramway with great views of Mount Rushmore and the surrounding area; a historic 1880 train ride that takes you through some of the most beautiful Black Hills scenery around; gorgeous caves that boast some of the area’s largest formations; and an original gold mine and mining museum from 1892 that offer mine tours and gold panning.
Take a free walking tour and explore 1890s mining history. Experience the life the miners once knew as you see and feel the history of this bygone era.
Make your reservations today for the Living History School. Taught by longtime locals, the school recreates the history, education, and activities that took place in Keystone during the late 1800s. Children and adults take part in an actual historical one-room classroom, view exhibits of past history, and wear the costumes students once used. School sessions occur once a week, and last for several hours. Reservations are limited.
Keystone—come for Mount Rushmore, and stay for the “City of Gold.” You’ll find a town rich in gold mining history and so much more.
For more information:
(800) 456-3345