Men in the Mountains - Inspired

Visiting Mount Rushmore Memorial is likely a dream for many American children as they grow up; it was for David and I. The concept of a monumental sculpture on a mountain showcasing the leaders who shaped our country and ideals is truly inspiring... but it was extremely crowded and very hot. (and we were there at 10 AM).

We had stopped on the way to Mount Rushmore to see Crazy Horse memorial which was done by Korczak Ziolkowski. Korczak was asked to assist Gutzon Borglum at Mount Rushmore during the summer of 1939.

The story of Crazy horse was something that neither David and I knew but were truly awed and inspired by the dedication and commitment of the sculptor and man, Korczak Ziolkowski. Korczak was a self taught sculptor of Polish decent. When Henry Standing Bear of the Lokata Tribe heard that Korczak had won first prize by popular vote at the 1939 New York World’s Fair for his Carrara marble portrait, “Paderewski, Study of an Immortal,” he invited Korczak to create the Crazy Horse Memorial. It is truly a great story and we encourage you to check it out ...https://crazyhorsememorial.org/the-story/korczak---storyteller-in-stone.

Korczak

They encourage you to take a piece of the mountain with you as well as to become a participant and part of their story as a 501c3 organization. It is important to state that this is a non government funded endeavor fully funded by donations. David found a "heart" shaped rock for us to take home. Project for David to smooth it out and make a well formed heart. shhh he doesn't know that is my plan for him yet. 🫶