Crazy Horse Memorial – Carving a Monument to Unity and Respect
Crazy Horse Memorial is an iconic carving of the Native American leader Crazy Horse located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The monument, which began in 1948 and is still being worked on, will be the world’s largest mountain carving and is a tribute to the culture, heritage, and spirit of the Lakota people.
Crazy Horse Memorial was the vision of Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear, who wanted to create a monument to honor his people’s proud history and culture. He chose the legendary Crazy Horse, who led the Lakota people in the Battle of Little Bighorn, to serve as the monument’s subject.
History of Crazy Horse Memorial
In 1939, Standing Bear wrote to sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski with his vision for a memorial to the Native Americans. Ziolkowski, who had been a student of the famous sculptor Gutzon Borglum (known for his work on Mount Rushmore), accepted the offer and began work on the project in 1948.
The first step in the project was to blast the mountain to remove the top 240 feet. This was done primarily using explosives and labor. Ziolkowski worked on the project until his death in 1982, and his family continues the work today.
The Design of Crazy Horse Memorial
Crazy Horse Memorial is a large mountain carving that will depict Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance. He will be flanked by two other figures, one of a Lakota warrior and one of a Native American woman. The monument will measure 641 feet long and 563 feet high and will feature a variety of other smaller figures and symbols.
The design of the memorial was inspired by the words of Chief Standing Bear, who said, “My fellow chiefs and I would like the white man to know that the red man has great heroes, too.”
Visiting Crazy Horse Memorial
Crazy Horse Memorial is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, just 17 miles from Mount Rushmore. The memorial is open year-round and can be visited by car, bus, or on foot. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.
The memorial offers a variety of activities and experiences, including the Indian Museum of North America, a Native American Cultural Center, a Native American Art Market, and a laser light show. Visitors can also take part in educational and cultural programs, such as the Native American Speakers Series and the Crazy Horse Quilting Club.
Crazy Horse Memorial is a powerful tribute to the culture and spirit of the Lakota people and a reminder of the importance of unity and respect. With its stunning design and educational activities, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience for all who visit.