Our next stop was Sturgis, South Dakota, home of the huge, (in)famous motorcycle rally held each year in early August. We had made sure, as soon as we had a notion of where we were going, that we would be well clear of the crowd. While Sturgis in mid September shows everyday vestiges of its annual claim to glory, such as biker bars, a motorcycle museum, and numerous references to motorcycles in local signage, the town was calm. Here and there were bikers, but for the most part the town was what you would expect of a place only a few miles from the geographical center of the United States.
We spent the better part of a week at an RV park just out of town. No Name City RV Park had great tv, Internet, a hot tub, and a smiling, helpful hostess. Damien got quite a bit of schoolwork done. We rested, as we were feeling like weary travelers.
But one day, we made a day trip to Deadwood. Deadwood was the site of a huge gold strike, and it is synonymous with several western legends. Its greatest claim to fame is as the site where Wild Bill Hickock was shot to death. Damien felt drawn to a personal relationship with this life size statue of Hickock that stands near the entrance to Deadwood's main street.
19th century western flavor is abundant, and the shopping, lodging, and dining opportunities are plentiful. Just as plentiful are the gaming opportunities. Casinos abound here, and if I hadn't known better, I would have thought I was in a Nevada town. Glancing in posh casino doors, I saw rows of slot machines and glimpses of other games. Uniformed staff stood at the entrances of the gambling establishments, ready to help potential customers get started, and valet parking was easily available. At least a couple casinos offered buffet meals, just as you would see in Nevada.
This hotel advertised a free celebrity museum, but when I looked in the door, the sight that greeted me was a casino. I'm not sure where the museum was, but, with Damien along, we directed our focus to other sights.
In the basement of one store, we found this fabulous model train. For two quarters, you could start it up. The size and detail of this setup are amazing, and it appears that more is yet to be added.
Upstairs was an ice cream shop, a restaurant, and the most amazing antique store. The antique store carried very high end, authentic western antiques, all well labeled with information about the item. It was every bit as good as many museums I've seen, and, on the side of caution, I found I reverted to the hands-clasped-behind-my-back posture that my mother taught me when I was five. Some of the price tags were breathtaking, and I didn't want to have any mishaps that would test the limit of my credit cards. So, while I heartily recommend this antique store, I offer the caveat that it is not appropriate for small children. But by all means, show the little ones the train and get them some ice cream. Here is the front of the shop, so you can find it, should you be looking for it.
There are several plaques around town that tell more about the amazing history of this town. In addition to the miners, cowboys, and outlaws, there were the Chinese and the Jewish businessmen. The town was quickly modernized and by the turn of the (last) century, Deadwood boasted up to date technology and architecture. Three major museums further educate visitors about local history. We only had time to visit the Adams museum.
Additionally, there appear to be a number of private collections for the visitor to peruse. We wished we had more time here and I look forward to coming back another time.
No comments:
Post a Comment