MT. RUSHMORE

Wednesday, August 11
Mt. Rushmore is just a brief ride from Rapid City, SD, where we are staying during Sturgis. It's a tourist favorite and despite the picture postcard connotations, a startling sight to see. The monument was a WPA project, carved from 1928-1934. Several crusty western bikers referred to it as "big government art." I did not ask what their families were doing during the depression.

A well designed museum presents Glutzon Borglum's models, and a fine series of sequential photographs of the mountain being carved.

Though most people are familiar with the monument, there are unusual angles of observation available when up close. I only regret not finding a good angle on Jefferson's nose.

George Washington seen from a crevice

Abe Lincoln from beneath his beard