When it comes to iconic President heads, few can rival the grandeur and historical significance of Mount Rushmore. Carved into the Black Hills of South Dakota, this monumental sculpture has captured the imagination of millions of visitors from around the world. In this blog, we’ll delve into ten fascinating facts about Mount Rushmore, shedding light on its creation, significance, hidden secrets, and how long it took to build Mount Rushmore. From the idea’s inception to the challenges faced by its builders and the activities for tourists today, let’s uncover the rich tapestry of Mount Rushmore’s history.
1. How the Idea of Mount Rushmore Began
Mount Rushmore’s story begins with the vision of a man named Gutzon Borglum, a sculptor who came up with the idea in 1923. Inspired by the notion of creating a massive sculpture to celebrate American history, Borglum proposed carving the faces of famous U.S. presidents into the mountainside. It wasn’t until 1927, however, that the project was approved and funded.
2. How Was the Name Decided?
One of the intriguing facts about Mount Rushmore is the fascinating origin story behind its name. The name “Mount Rushmore” was chosen in honor of Charles E. Rushmore, a New York lawyer who visited the area in the 1880s and asked a local guide for the name of the mountain. The guide, not knowing the mountain had an official name, simply referred to it as “Rushmore,” and the name stuck.
3. The Construction of Mount Rushmore
Construction of Mount Rushmore began in 1927 and how long did it take to build? 14 years, concluding in 1941. Carving the massive heads of four U.S. presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt—required an enormous amount of effort. The faces were meticulously chiseled into the granite using dynamite, followed by precise finishing work.
The monumental task of carving the faces of four U.S. presidents into Mount Rushmore presented a formidable challenge. With a staggering 450,000 tons of granite to be removed, traditional chisels alone were clearly insufficient for the job. When the carving commenced on October 4, 1927, under the direction of sculptor Gutzon Borglum, the initial approach involved the use of jackhammers. However, just like chisels, jackhammers proved to be too slow for the ambitious project.
Frustrated by three weeks of painstaking effort and insufficient progress, Borglum made a pivotal decision on October 25, 1927—he decided to employ dynamite. Through practice and precision, the workers honed their skills in blasting away the granite, carefully approaching within inches of what would eventually become the sculptures’ “skin.”
4. The Presidents’ Heads
The choice of president for Mount Rushmore was not arbitrary. Each one was selected to represent a specific aspect of American history and values. George Washington symbolizes the birth of the nation, Thomas Jefferson represents expansion, Abraham Lincoln signifies preservation, and Theodore Roosevelt embodies the country’s development.
5. Height of the Heads
The faces of the presidents on Mount Rushmore are truly monumental. Each head stands at a towering height of approximately 60 feet, equivalent to a six-story building. The sheer size of the sculptures is awe-inspiring and serves as a testament to the dedication of the sculptors who worked on the project.
6. The Entablature
One of the most fascinating facts about is the construction, in addition to the four presidential heads, Mount Rushmore features an entablature, or a large inscription, which reads “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This phrase was added to reflect the national motto and the importance of faith in American society. The entablature itself is 80 feet wide and 17 feet tall.
The planned placement of the Entablature underwent several shifts in location, with the initial intent being to accompany the carved images in some proximity. Ultimately, the idea of the Entablature was abandoned, driven by a combination of factors. Firstly, it was realized that the words inscribed on it would not be discernible from a distance, diminishing its intended impact. Secondly, financial constraints played a significant role in the decision to forgo the Entablature’s inclusion.
7. Construction Challenges
Building Mount Rushmore was not without its challenges. The granite in the Black Hills is incredibly hard, which made carving the sculptures a slow and labor-intensive process. Moreover, the harsh South Dakota weather, with its extreme temperature fluctuations, presented additional difficulties for the workers. Despite these challenges of President heads, the dedication of the team ensured the project’s completion.
8. Location
Mount Rushmore’s location in the Black Hills of South Dakota was carefully chosen for its natural beauty and accessibility. It has become a symbol of the American West and a testament to the region’s rugged grandeur. The site offers stunning panoramic views and is situated within the Black Hills National Forest.
9. Secrets About Mount Rushmore
Beyond its iconic faces and inscription, Mount Rushmore harbors some intriguing secrets. For instance, a hidden chamber known as the Hall of Records was intended to store important historical documents but was never completed. Additionally, the sculpture’s faces display a phenomenon known as “granite tears,” which occurs when rainwater causes streaks on the granite surface.
10. What Else to Do in Mount Rushmore?
While visiting Mount Rushmore, there is much more to explore in the area. Join the throngs of visitors, and you’ll find yourself at the Grand View Terrace, situated just past the Avenue of the Flags. Undoubtedly, the head-on vistas are breathtaking and uninterrupted. However, there’s a superior way to experience it. Embark on the less-traveled path that encircles the mountain’s base. Ascending the steps amidst the ponderosa pines, you can gain a more intimate perspective of the carved faces as you navigate through a series of bends and curves (and perhaps even spot a Rocky Mountain goat or mule deer along the way).
The Mount Rushmore National Memorial boasts a visitor center with interactive exhibits and an informative film about the monument’s history. Furthermore, the surrounding Black Hills offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for outdoor adventure. Nearby, you can also explore the historic town of Keystone and experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Looking for a Place to Stay Near Mount Rushmore?
If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rushmore, consider staying at Black Hawk Creek, a conveniently located destination just 2 miles from the interstate and a mere 5-minute drive from Rapid City. Black Hawk Creek offers a range of accommodation choices, from comfortable RV sites to charming cabins, ensuring you have a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Moreover, its proximity to Black Hawk Stables makes it an ideal choice for horse enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.
In conclusion, Mount Rushmore is not just a remarkable piece of art; it’s a symbol of American history, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the nation. The journey from the idea’s conception to its completion was a testament to human determination and ingenuity. As you explore this iconic monument and the surrounding natural beauty, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the presidents whose faces grace the mountainside and the remarkable craftsmanship that brought them to life. So, plan your trip, uncover the secrets of Mount Rushmore, and experience the majesty of this extraordinary national treasure.