Mount Rushmore during sunset, a shot of the great monument with fading sunlight behind the Black Hills. The 60-foot (18 m) sculpted heads are of U.S. Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Photo #1 by Chaitanya Polumetla
Air Force One flying over Mount Rushmore. The entire memorial is spread out over 1,278.45 acres (5.17 km2). Photo #2 by U.S. Air Force
Every year, about 3 million visitors come through this entrance to view the presidents which were sculpted by Danish-American Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln Borglum. Wikipedia states, “Construction on the memorial began in 1927, and the presidents’ faces were completed between 1934 and 1939. Upon Gutzon Borglum’s death in March 1941, his son Lincoln Borglum took over construction. Although the initial concept called for each president to be depicted from head to waist, lack of funding forced construction to end in late October 1941.” Photo #3 by Scott Catron
Roosevelt and Lincoln – Mt Rushmore. Photo #4 by Stewart Baird
It took 400 workers 14 years to carve out our Founding Fathers. Photo #5 by Zach Dischner
Mt. Rushmore at Night. The NPS evening lighting schedule varies throughout the year, but during the main season, NPS said from mid-May to mid-August, the sculptures are lit up at 9:00 p.m. nightly. The evening lighting starts at 8:00 p.m. from mid-August through September. Photo #6 by Dhaval Shreyas
1932 picture of construction at Mount Rushmore of George Washington’s likeness. Amazingly, even with 400 workers and hanging by harnesses, there were no fatalities during construction. Photo #7 by Rise Studio, Rapid City, S. Dak
Two F/A-18E Super Hornets conduct a fly by of Mount Rushmore during a recent training exercise. U.S. Navy Photo #8 by Lt. Anthony Dobson
Mount Rushmore National Memorial. NPS wrote, “The figure of Thomas Jefferson was originally started on Washington’s right side. After 18 months of carving the figure of Jefferson had to be blasted off the mountain and restarted on Washington’s left side.” Photo #9 by Jim Bowen from Hope Mills NC, US
Mount Rushmore HDR. This project to carve the Presidents into Rushmore was first started to increase tourism in the Black Hills region of South Dakota and is now the top tourist location in the state. Photo #10 by Mike Tigas from Spokane, WA, United States
Fireworks detonate above the National Memorial in South Dakota. USAF Photo #11 by Senior Airman Marc I. Lane
Screenshot from trailer for North by Northwest: It is a 1959 MGM thriller by Alfred Hitchcock. The film stars Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason, Leo G. Carroll, and Martin Landau. “Scriptwriter Ernest Lehman recalled that in the course of screenwriting, Hitchcock murmured wistfully, ‘I always wanted to do a chase across the faces of Mount Rushmore.’ The scene was not actually filmed at the monument, since permission to shoot an attempted killing on the face of a national monument was refused by the National Park Service.” Mt. Rushmore has been used in other movies such as National Treasure: Book of Secrets in which “the monument was constructed to hide the City of Gold.” Photo #12 by Petrusbarbygere
George Washington Profile closeup. Presidents Day is celebrated in honor of Washington’s birthday. When George Washington was leading the troops so America could be free of Britain’s control, he said, “The time is now near at hand which must probably determine whether Americans are to be freemen or slaves; whether they are to have any property they can call their own; whether their houses and farms are to be pillaged and destroyed, and themselves consigned to a state of wretchedness from which no human efforts will deliver them. The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army. Our cruel and unrelenting enemy leaves us only the choice of brave resistance, or the most abject submission. We have, therefore, to resolve to conquer or die.” Photo #13 by Ed Menard Ranger / NPS
Mt Rushmore seen from one of the tunnels on highway 16A. Photo #14 by Kimon Berlin
Mount Rushmore in the fog. This mountain was “originally known to the Lakota Sioux as Six Grandfathers, the mountain was renamed after Charles E. Rushmore, a prominent New York lawyer, during an expedition in 1885.” But “as Six Grandfathers, the mountain was part of the route that Lakota leader Black Elk took in a spiritual journey that culminated at Harney Peak.” So “Mount Rushmore is controversial among Native Americans because the United States seized the area from the Lakota tribe after the Great Sioux War of 1876. The Treaty of Fort Laramie from 1868 had previously granted the Black Hills to the Lakota in perpetuity. Members of the American Indian Movement led an occupation of the monument in 1971, naming it ‘Mount Crazy Horse’.” However, “the Crazy Horse Memorial is being constructed elsewhere in the Black Hills to commemorate the famous Native American leader and as a response to Mount Rushmore.” Photo #15 by Ed Menard Ranger / NPS
Mount Rushmore in the snow. In the off-season, there is still an evening lighting ceremony: “Sculpture illuminated nightly for one hour, approximately 30 minutes after sunset.” Photo #16 by Ed Menard Ranger / NPS
Mount Rushmore National Park ranger with Washington and Jefferson. Photo #17 by NPS
View of Abraham Lincoln from on top of Mt. Rushmore. On November 19, 1863, during the Gettysburg Address, Lincoln said, “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” Photo #18 by Rachel.miller727
MORU Hall of records, according to NPS, “Artist Gutzon Borglum envisioned a Hall of Records behind the sculpture that was never completed. The Hall of Records and the mountain are inaccessible to the public.” Photo #19 by NPS / Amy Bracewell
Interior Hall of Records. NPS Did You Know states, “A man-made opening called the Hall of Records was created in the mountain behind the heads on Mount Rushmore. Gutzon Borglum and his carvers worked on the Hall of Records from July, 1938, until July, 1939, but it was never finished.” Photo #20 by NPS / Amy Bracewell
MORU Hall of Records “repository was intended to tell the story of Mount Rushmore and of the United States . After the United States Congress threatened to cut off all funding for the project unless used specifically to finish the sculpture itself, Borglum reluctantly stopped work on the hall in 1939.” Photo #21 by NPS / Amy Bracewell
Roosevelt closeup from above. “Do what you can, with what you’ve got, where you are,” said Roosevelt. He also said, “I have always been fond of the West African proverb ‘Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far’.” Photo #22 by NPS Digital Image Archives
Winch and equipment in Lincoln Borglum Museum. NPS explains the carving history: “Mount Rushmore is a project of colossal proportion, colossal ambition and colossal achievement. It involved the efforts of nearly 400 men and women. The duties involved varied greatly from the call boy to drillers to the blacksmith to the housekeepers. Some of the workers at Mount Rushmore were interviewed, and were asked, ‘What is it you do here?’ One of the workers responded and said, ‘I run a jackhammer.’ Another worker responded to the same question, ‘I earn $8.00 a day.’ However, a third worker said, ‘I am helping to create a memorial.’ The third worker had an idea of what they were trying to accomplish.” Photo #23 by Ed Menard / NPS
Charles D’Emery documented the carving of Mount Rushmore for 14 years. Photo #24 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
Mt Rushmore detail of Abraham Lincoln’s face. CyArk states, “Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, held the nation together during its greatest trial, the Civil War. Lincoln believed his most sacred duty was the preservation of the union. It was his firm conviction that slavery must be abolished (1809-1865).” Photo #25 by CyArk / Kacyra Family Foundation / NPS
Mt. Rushmore, up-close view of Thomas Jefferson. CyArk site states, “Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States, was the author of the Declaration of Independence, a document which inspires democracies around the world. He also purchased the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803 which doubled the size of our country, adding all or part of fifteen present-day states (1743-1826).” A Jefferson quote: “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” Photo #26 by CyArk / Kacyra Family Foundation / NPS
Mt Rushmore detail on Theodore Roosevelt’s face. CyArk wrote, “Theodore Roosevelt, 26th president of the United States, provided leadership when America experienced rapid economic growth as it entered the 20th Century. He was instrumental in negotiating the construction of the Panama Canal, linking the east and the west. He was known as the ‘trust buster’ for his work to end large corporate monopolies and ensure the rights of the common working man (1858-1919).” Photo #27 by CyArk / Kacyra Family Foundation / NPS
Mount Rushmore National Memorial working on Jefferson, photo by Charles D’Emery. More from NPS about the carving history: “The workers had to endure conditions that varied from blazing hot to bitter cold and windy. Each day they climbed 700 stairs to the top of the mountain to punch-in on the time clock. Then 3/8 inch thick steel cables lowered them over the front of the 500 foot face of the mountain in a ‘bosun chair’. Some of the workers admitted being uneasy with heights, but during the Depression, any job was a good job.” Photo #28 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
Mount Rushmore, hanging in the sky, working on an eye. Not a single man or woman died during the 14 years of blasting and carving to create the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Photo #29 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
NPS said, “Over 90% of Mount Rushmore was carved using dynamite. Dynamite blasts removed approximately 450,000 tons of rock from the mountain.” This historic D’Emery photo is of early construction work on the Lincoln sculpture, showing dust from the dynamite blasts. NPS also wrote, “Dynamite was used until only three to six inches of rock was left to remove to get to the final carving surface. At this point, the drillers and assistant carvers would drill holes into the granite very close together. This was called honeycombing. The closely drilled holes would weaken the granite so it could be removed often by hand.” Photo #30 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
Mount Rushmore construction workers hanging by cables. Photo #31 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
Mount Rushmore and brave workers. Photo #32 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
Construction of Mount Rushmore National Monument (MORU). Photo #33 by Charles D’Emery / NPS
Colossal granite heads of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln are not eroding “since the estimated erosion rate is 1 inch every 10,000 years.” Photo #34 by National Park Service Digital Image Archives
I feel the shots of Mt. Rushmore are some of the most informative and beautiful shots I have ever seen. The information included with the shots of Mt. Rushmore.The information about all the work done and the individual info about each president is very intense and informative.
It is hard to believe that most of rock was set up using dynamite.
I’m stunned that Mexicans haven’t covered it with graffiti yet. I hope they have guards there to protect it from vandalism.
Now why would you insiuate that the “Mexicans” would be the ones to cover it with graffiti…….the young Americans are the most likely source of that act…..shame on you
Thank you Ann !!! Racial profiling has NOTHING to do with this wonderful Representation of 4 of the Best Presidents in American History, Cornelius !!!
Ann, it is still out there ! You would think all that old thinking has died and gone to hell wouldn’t you.
It represents only 3 of the Best Presidents in American History Ann. The 4th one, Roosevelt was one of the worst, since he pushed Progressivism to new heights, which our country may never recover from.
EYE TOONS MUST BE KIDDING. ROOSEVELT WAS WONDERFUL. WITHOUT HIS EFFORTS MOST OF THE NATIONAL PARKS WOULD HAVE BEEN SOLD OFF TO RICH REPUBLICANS AND MADE INTO EXCLUSIVE TOURIST PLACES, AND ALL THE ANIMALS THAT LIVED THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN SHOT BY ORGANIZED HUNTING PARTIES. MANY WOULD HAVE BEEN SOLD FOR $1.00 PER ACRE TO OIL PUKES TO DRILL ON.
Mr. Clark:
I believe you are ignorant of a few facts. First, although I agree that TR did a great job with the parks, HE WAS one of those Republicans. Second, I have grown up and live in a hunting area of SD. Even though I don’t hunt, what I know to be true is that those that hunt do more to protect and preserve the wildlife than many of the clowns who live in the highrises and think they know what’s best for the rest of us. Finally, those “oil pukes” you speak of keep people warm in the winter and transportation we’ve come to depend on, running. I have seen first hand the reclamation efforts in ND and the wildlife along the pipelines living in harmony. Give us a break from your “socialistic” outlook.
The reason is simple…..almost all graffiti nowadays is due to Mexican gangs. It isn’t a secret but you seem to be way behind the times and disconnected from reality.
Sad but true. Drive around L.A. and see for yourself. But political correctness dictates that the truth takes a back seat to fact.
Why pick on the Mexicans and not the blacks who are big in graffitti. Have you ever seen black people climbing high altitudes, especially mountains, to spray graffitti. If they did, half this country’s monuments would be covered in graffitti.
I just had a really good idea… well, at least I think it’s a good idea… how about if we stop bringing politics and racism into comments about the history of a national monument.
KOTOC,
Now, why would the keepers of this column decide to send ME this particular article by ROSIE L. ?
I don’t receive any other articles. Remember what I said about big business and etc.
Are you guys naive enough to think that these pictures only create controversy about the structure or the awe? THEY WANT THE CONTROVERSY ABOUT RACE AND ETHNIC RESPONSE TO BE A PART OF THIS !
It is SO clear! Otherwise, why send me emails only when the inference is about racial ethnicity.
People don’t want to hear all the drab stories about whose uncle or grandfather, or dad helped to build this structure. People want excitement in their reading. I QUOTE. “WHY DON;T YOU GUYS JUST GIVE IT UP…..THIS ISN’T THE FORUM FOR YOUR POLITICAL RANTS.” Some WIMP answered with, ” Norma, please forgive me for my comments about our current government…”
That is just a stupid and racial remark. You should be ashamed.
Norma, These individuals have to blame someone for their failures and lousy existence. It’s ALL they have left!
Ann is totally wrong. She should have said dirty Mexicans. jms
Cornelius, I hope the rock you crawled out from under is NOT at Mount Rushmore.
It just sounds to me like Cornelius has had the same kind of experience with illegal immigrants from Mexico that we have here in Texas. It DOES sound like racial profiling, but in all honesty “the proof is in the pudding”… so to speak. I imagine New Mexico, Arizona and California have the same problems.
The same Mexicans who hang the US flag upsidedown and fly the Mexican flag higher on the pole???? Yeah, those are the ones!
Yes, those are the ones alright. I’ll level with you,I have some very nice neighbors who are of Mexican descent… I like them. My daughter has a boyfriend who is also a Mexican man. He is intelligent, well mannered, polite and knowledgeable about electronics. However, there are also a lot of my Mexican neighbors that blast their Mexican music loud enough to hear in the next county, throw loud parties until late hours of the night and leave broken glass, beer cans and let their trash blow at will through the neighborhood when the wind kicks up…So you see, it’s not the nationality… it’s the ATTITUDE of so many people from Mexico that make me angry. To me, it’s a personal experience with them… not just something I read about or see on TV.
I can not believe that someone would say this. You must have a heart filled with hate. Shame on you.
How dare you instill your racist remarks on a national monument. You should be proud to be an American, no matter from what enthic group you might descend! As a child, I can recall going to see this amazing project; seeing the men hang from the scaffolding. Absolutely amazing. At my age of 80 years old it breaks my heart that there are still so many racists amoung us. Let’s leave that behind us and be proud of our mixed heritage.
The “racists” among us have been in a position to know what goes on. And the ones who have done the damage to the neighborhood are spoiling it for those who are of the same nationality who just want to live right and be at peace.
Your friends already call you “Corney.” That means you have no standing to have any kind of credible opinion.
Such idiocy, I’m sorry. Only someone totally unaware of how this kind of comment affects people would offer it. Note: If you READ the articles,”sir”, you’d know that the public has no access to the monument itself.
Wow, racist asshole much?
Their low-riders can’t reach it.
What a moron you are ! Tagging is an American phenomena that has spread to other countries from the USA.
What’s your problem? Get a life!
Ben, can’t you see it ? It’s HATE Ben…..It’s plain old fashion “because they don’t look like me or think like me, I hate them.” It’s plain and simple Ben. It’s hate and it comes in many fashions.
To Calvin Slay I have this to say — BULLSHIT.
Mexicans are too short to do their “artwork” here
I live there grew up seeing those faces almost monthly ride our bikes through those tunnels all summer. There not praying to the Koran up there you can count on that!
Maybe they aren’t praying to the koran up there. But, they have the right to pray to whomever they choose. That is a freedom that we are guaranteed. To them, theirs is just as important as yours is to you. Thank God, we aren’t all alike!
At least my religion doesn’t want to kill every one that is not like them!
Only because it’s against the law here dave. Willing to bet you that any other protestant or catholic is willing to tell you that yours is NOT the true religion . If it wasn’t against the law, they would be willing to fight you and kill you.
Mosque and Jewish temple bombings are a good place to start proving it.AND, that’s why we have chosen to live in a nation of laws.
Comments about bombing people or places will not be tolerated and could very possibly bring the law down on your head. Since someone has already replied to it, Love These Pics staff did not delete it but we did strike through it.
My statement was not written clearly. (My fault)
The statement read,If it wasn’t against the law, they would be willing to fight you and kill you.
Mosques and Jewish temple bombings are a good place to start proving it.
The point I was trying to get across was, FORMER AND PRESENT BOMBINGS OF MOSQUES AND TEMPLES ARE GOOD EXAMPLES AS STARTING POINTS TO SHOW THE EXTENT PEOPLE WILL GO TO SHOW THEIR DISLIKE FOR OTHER RELIGIONS. Sorry I didn’t explain it better in the beginning.
Uh oh, Calvin… better watch what you say from now on! Your “liberal slip” is showing. Would you like me to define that for you, or can you figure it out for yourself?
PROUD to be a liberal! Thank you for the compliment, Shows that I have feelings and compassion for my fellow human beings.
….”above all, love thy neighbor as thyself.”
Actually, Marjorie, Muslims don’t pray TO the “Koran,” they pray to Allah, and the QURAN to them is like the Bible is to Christians, and the Torah is to Jews. And there’s one other little detail you might want to check into in your spare time… Muslims are infiltrating just about every country in the world and their purpose is to convert you and me to Islam or we will be destroyed. If you don’t believe me, check it out for yourself… and yes, they are swarming into our country even as we speak and we can’t do anything about it because our own “beloved” president allows it… after all, why wouldn’t a Muslim allow his “brothers” into his realm?
Correction to my last comment: It was meant for Steven Paleck. Sorry for the mistake.
Aw, c’mon Kotoc. That is a subject that has NOT been proven. (President Obama being a Muslim )
Please don’t tell me you’re STILL looking for the REAL birth certificate also.(Along with that idiot in New York.)
Calvin, Obama said awhile back that he is proud of his Muslim heritage. I HEARD him say it. Now, maybe he attended a so-called “Christian” church for awhile, under the teachings of that blasphemous Rev. White (who said “God damn America!”) but he has ALSO attended a Muslim mosque for THEIR services. And as for his birth certificate, he wouldn’t produce it upon request. Why would he have a problem with that? Is he hiding something that would have prevented him from being elected? You figure it out.
Attending a particular service does not necessarily obligate you. I have on occassions attended Catholic, methodist, apostolic and Baptist services. I am Still undecided as to preference. So…?
As to the birth certificate, asking and receiving a copy from the Island of Hawaii should be proof enough. By the way, the Reverands’ name is WRIGHT, not WHITE.
Mitt Romney was asked about offshore accounts (through the media) and for more proof that he paid substantial percentages on income taxes during certain years. He produced ONLY what he paid on AVERAGE over certain years. This is what he wanted the public to know, NOT what the public was asking. (through the media)
If I am NOT assuming too much, I would guess that you voted Romney in the previous election. I voted for President Obama.
As you said, Calvin… and I quote: “If I am NOT assuming too much, I would guess that you voted Romney in the previous election. I voted for President Obama.”
You are correct that I voted for Mitt Romney. I confess that I’m not exactly a big fan of Romney’s but ANYONE would have been better for our country than Barack Obama. To be honest, I would have preferred Sarah Palin or Ron Paul. However, I voted for Romney to cast my vote AGAINST Obama.
Are you still proud to have elected a lying, deceitful, narcissistic and evil person who is intentionally TRYING to bring our country to its knees? Truthfully, can you say that you don’t mind ignoring what condition we are in today because of him? Loyalty is one thing, and in most cases is an admirable thing, but I suppose it’s true what they say, “You can’t fix stupid.”
Why don’t you guys just give it up! You aren’t going to change each other’s opinions, much less anyone else’s opinion, and it’s become really boring. This isn’t the forum for your political rants. If you want to continue, exchange personal emails. I wouldn’t be writing this except for the fact that I checked a box to get notifications of comments when this was still about Mt. Rushmore. I’ve unchecked it but still getting comments. From now on I’ll just delete without reading.
Norma, please forgive me for my comments about our current government. I think it all started with my first one about our president possibly expecting HIS face on Mt. Rushmore. Being such a narcissist that he is, it wouldn’t surprise me one bit.
As you wish, I will leave this alone from now on.
KOTOC GOT IT RIGHT.
Mr. Villaire’s comments were a great response to the true essence of Mt. Rushmore and the great pictures of this national treasure.
The majority of the rest of the responses about Mexicans, misspellings and the back and forth diatribe(look it up)is proof that the ‘Village Idiots’ are alive and well(?) Please get a life!
Which political website shall we take this issue up on, David? Any suggestions? So far, we have all only met here on this one. And I, for one, am not willing to give my personal e-mail address on this public website.
Dave – they have a life. They are the village idiots!!!!!!!!!!
Where’s Obama??
Liberals and their political correctness, much like an ostrich with his head stuck in the sand.
John, if you don’t recognize it, I don’t know what to tell you. It’s staring you in the face and you refuse to see it! We have lost this country and we will NEVER get it back as long as we don’t make some hard decisions. Hope you aren’t one of those thinking, because you have a GUN, you are able to “defend yourself against the government.” The ballot is the cure until the RIGHT TO VOTE IS RAKEN FROM YOU. DON’T SAY IT CAN’T HAPPEN !…..(1960’s)
I just wanted to say I really enjoyed the e-mail my father sent, it is a part of history and we should be proud of that…Thanks Eddie
Really, this is a living memorial to those men of vision and courage who, by their efforts, built
a new form of government in this world that was the envy of the all people, everywhere. We, Americans, make a mockery of that institution as we allow special interest groups to define and
dictate what we think, in political correctness turning us into spineless, mealy-mouthed cowards
in self-serving, selfish abdicatiion of the God given authority to order our own lives, by our own efforts. God, help us stand up and reposses our possessions.
[…] ΠΗΓΗ […]
By blasting method we can make sculpture, it is really amazing.
R Pal – There was more DRILLING by hand than there was blasting.
While I appreciated the talent that went into the making of the sculpture, I must say that it is a huge and unnecessary piece of graffiti which will forever mare the landscape.
By the way, only two of the men portrayed there were founding fathers.
You’re not only a fool, but you need to learn to spell. I don’t believe the landscape is hurt by “a female horse”!!
Hey DICK, rather than insult me and grade my typographical errors, why not put forth a legitimate argument or opinion?
The funding from Congress for Mt. Rushmore was as idiotic then as some of the programs that are funded by the same type of idiots in Congress today. Not only do I believe it was, and continues to be, a waste of money, it is also a ugly scar on the more beautiful natural landscape.
I will only agree with you on the do-nothing Congress we now have. The original government contribution to this project was a $250,000 matching grant from South Dakota. Can you even fathom the number of people who feed their families and pay taxes from occupations related to the monument. The amount of money those people pay into federal taxes far exceeds the government contribution. The total cost of this project was $989,992.32 Our blood-suckers spend that in a minute, today. For disabled combat veterans like myself, the monument is a source of pride for what we placed our lives in jeopardy to defend. We did so, so that people like you have the freedom to post just about any statement you wish. Finally, it takes about 10 seconds to proofread your posts.
Your service is appreciated. It does not however diminish the fact the funds allocated to the project could have been spent on more worthy causes rather than defacing the landscape. Rationalizing the paying of taxes and feeding of families from such an endeavor is a weak argument. That’s like saying planned parenthood (govt. funded) and it’s activities is a good thing because it employs thousands of people. It’s akin to members of Congress justifying their bloated staffs by telling the public that the staffer’s families are feed. We can play the funding/spending game all day.
Understanding the difference in standards of the different eras, can you imaging, today, erecting a gaudy statue on the wall of the Grand Canyon or on Stony Man in the Shenandoah National Park? Surely you have a place you hold dear to your heart where you find peace and quiet, where you find refuge and solace. Imagine it gone or somehow destroyed.
You and I will not agree on the need for or purpose of Mt. Rushmore. It seems we agree that the government wastes money. To me, Rushmore is one example.
I’m done, thanks for the discussion.
My final comment would be this: are you perfect? Have you ever driven or ridden in a car? Think about it, at one time those areas covered by those roads were as pristine as the Black Hills area you’re concerned about, and they meant just as much to someone as that “place you hold dear in your heart”.
And the extravagent vacations by the obummers are financed by whom?
Most of the funds were from contributions!
Jack,thank you for educating Curtis. Ask Curtis how many times he wrote an article (regardless how small) about the Bushes, (both), Nixons, Clintons,and other Presidents who graced this Nation concerning their vacations and the cost. These haters really get the best of my patience. President Bush, the last one, got us into this fiasco. You don’t come out of this type of situation in a year or two. FAMILIES don’t recover that fast. Look at the situation in MOORE, OKlahoma, New Jersey, New York state and other areas hit by tornadosc and or hurricanes. Most of these people without help WILL NOT recover in four years. Same situation with our President. YOU HAVE TO SPEND MONEY TO MAKE MONEY. ROOSEVELT GOT US OUT OF A DEPRESSION BY SPENDING MONEY CONGRESS ALLOTED THE MONEY TO CREATE THE W.P.A. and other jobs projects. But this President has a congress that refuses to cooperate with him. Party politics!!!
OLD, FAT MOUTH McConnell: “It is my” (job or duty) “to see that he is a one term president.” Well FAT MOUTH, seems you misunderstood what the people were seeing in this man. Just the other day on the evening news, a road collasped because the hugh pipes servicing water to a city rotted away, causing a hugh sinkhole. These are some of the infrastructure the President is trying to replace or repair. Congress will not allot the money. If the Republicans can’t get credit for thinking and doing it,They’ll be damned if they are allowing the Democrats to get the credit. When you show the people progress as far as party goes, it assures another party victory the following election four years. Poor Republicans, can’t handle that. Bet the people working for the auto industry don’t think it was wasteful spending to save their jobs and pensions. Neither would you if you were employed in THAT industry………I relinguish my soapbox ! SELFISH, SELFISH, SELFISH.
You just got to be a liberal. Its art in it finest and will remain so for eternity
Reagan got usout of Carters mess in 2 years right? What’s Obama’s Excuse?
Obama’s excuse? He’s just a puppet and Muslim sympathizer. He’s not even a true American, so what can you expect? How many OTHER American presidents can you name that spent so much of our tax dollars evading the “birth certificate” and “college credentials” issues that he did? Anyone who says he’s a true-blue American is stupid and intentionally blind to his wrongdoings.
Kotoc,
I can’t believe some of the idiotic things you come up with. You and that other idiot back in New York have so much in common. How many other presidents that you can name have been ASKED for a birth certificate or college records. Speaking of records, President Bush’s military records showed a lapse of service during his period of service to this country. According to his records, if I am not mistaken, the records show him active and there was a period where he was not accounted for and suddenly he is accounted for again. Why do you NOT question that. His vice president, Chaney was deferred FOUR times for military service and NEVER served. Why do you NOT question that? President Obama is NOT a muslim ! President Obama IS a born citizen of this country! Well, I wonder if Congress, like you will NEVER give up on trying to make the health care bill illegal.How many times now have they tried to gat it rescinded? Is this number 40? Now I know why you’re a Republican.You have the nerve to call President Obama “NOT A TRUE BLUE AMERICAN”, shame on you. Until you can prove it, you should keep your feelings to yourself.Do you realize how this makes you look. I had given you credit for having some sense of reasoning. Now I am wondering………..You know exactly why they, meaning you and others, are picking this man apart. Eventually the working man is going to realize a better life because of him and his plans for America. If you’re a working man, you too will benefit.
Crazy Neo-con,
The “Carter Mess” as you call it, is in NO WAY comparable to the Bush Mess! This Bush Mess brought us to our knees. Retirement pensions lost. Job security gone. I am surprised we didn’t see people jumping from windows of high rises.President Obama’s excuse (if you want to call it that)Is that CONGRESS creates jobs. When Roosevelt came into office during the great depression,Congress alloted monies to create work programs. If the CONGRESS had allowed President Obama to create the programs he asked of them, we would be further along on our recovery. In fact, we are on the way as I speak. California and New York have allready said, “Obama care has had an impact on the cost of medical care in (their) states. The cost of care has DROPPED.” However, lets get back to the work programs. The President wants Congress to allot monies to repair and replace our infrastructure, Bridges, schools, rails, roadways and other deteriorating sectors across this country. Ever hear of the W.P.A …That was one of the job creating programs that Roosevelt asked for and got. Congress didn’t care if the president was Republican or Democrat. The people needed and wanted jobs so, the Congress allowed it to happen. With this Congress, all that matters to them is, WE DON’T WANT THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY TO REPAIR SOMETHING THE REPUBLICAN PARTY SCREWED UP. ESPECIALLY IF IT IS REPAIRED BY A FIRST TIME BLACK PRESIDENT.( I am telling it like it is) So, my point to you crazy neo-con is don’t look to the President for an excuse. Look to congress. That is where the blame lies!
Interesting conversation going on here about birth location. To back up, do y’all know what beastiality is? It’s when a human has sex with an animal. If the two are close in the genome structure they can generate a spawn, such as donkeys and horses can have mules who are mostly sterile. However some spawns of bestiality can be very glib, not smart, but glib and get elected to office.
Mark Crider,
You are a despicable (whatever you are) specimen. Not one person in this setting EVER put him or herself in a position of COMPLETE stupidity and hate as you have. I know you well. I’ve seen you throughout my entire life. You don’t crawl from under rocks. You crawl from slime. Murky, stinking slime. Do us all a favor and crawl back ,low life.
Good answer, to a stupid remark!
Well his mother had sex with a chimp + one genome up.
quand je pense qu’on ose dire que les français sont racistes mais à lire la bétise de vos réponses les bras m’en tombent et en plus vous vous isulter par messages interposés !!!!
You are a fool, have no sense of patriotism and a wanna be know-it-all.
Why not just move out of the U.S., give us all a chance to enjoy this wondrous marvel?
Connie, That is SOOOOO typical!
Your reply Rerminds me of the many civil rights opponents.
It’s difficult to be leitimate with a liberal like you TK!
Now is the time for you Republicans to wake up and see your thinking is not working and never will.
I wonder where this country would be if the interstate or the hover dam and yes mount Rushmore would have never got built.
Gary, if you will permit me to be a bit persnickety about your wording, spelling and punctuation, allow me to correct your second sentence: “I wonder where this country would be if the Interstate or the Hoover Dam, and yes, Mount Rushmore had never been built.” (Does that not sound better?) And you might as well blast Republicans all you want because you’re clearly touting your ignorance already. Such is the realm of Liberal Democrats, and Republicans cannot help but roll their eyes in frustration.
In reference to your kind words to Gary. It seems as if you totally understood his verbalization. You interpreted it perfectly. So, don’t you imagine the rest of us understood his explanation. Maybe you were just showing off.
Maybe I was showing off a little, but doesn’t it irritate you when someone blasts your political affiliation that doesn’t even proofread their own comment to be sure it sounds like someone who didn’t flunk high school English?
Kotoc,
when you made this statement, about four paragraphs below was a piece from Harry Stickler.
Notice you let him get away with, ” if YOUR not happy here, then leave”
How did you overlook that kotoc. You surprise me sometimes….LOL
Calvin and kotoc:
Although I recognize your right to free speech, why don’t you two take your constant bickering to a political chat site. I subscribe to this to hear comments about a beautiful treasure. I, and I’m sure there are others, tire of your incessant ranting.
Dick, and just how do you propose we do that? Shall I post my private e-mail address here for ALL to see? You can forget THAT idea right this minute! I’m just sick and tired of numbnuts Calvin Slay proving to the world that he’s dumber than a bag of rocks for supporting Obummer and making a fool of himself and insulting ME at every opportunity. This will be my last posting on this matter and from now on, I’m going to just ignore Calvin because he’s just not worth my time and frustration any more. I’ll just delete any further comments from my e-mail on this issue and you and CALVIN can have “words” all you want.
Gee whiz Kotoc,
I thought you and I had at least some semblance of understanding. But, you want to diss me and turn me over to Dick Shaffen! My God, this man does not know how to carry on a conversation. All he has to offer is his ability to threaten someone with his fists. HE IS NOT A THINKER LIKE YOU AND I! I called him gullible and he stated that ” You aren’t big enough to call me gullible.” Fisticuffs, threats and inuendos are his capabilities. Very limited, very limited ! So, come on back Koto. I need to talk to someone with a brain.
Sorry, Calvin… I can’t stomach any more arguments with you… Goodbye! Fare thee well.
Alas ! Poor Calvin, cast to the wolves. Hast thou no relevance to a friendship of history past? T’was only a fortnight ago when your fortitude shone.
Now I am but a fleeting memory. “You shall remain as a thorn in my flesh,neer removed. Fear you may fade away.” Fare thee well also shining knight!
Okay kotoc and Calvin now you two cut it out!! Isn’t this suppose to be about BEAUTIFUL Mt. Rushmore? What the hell is going on here? No more politics!!
(EVEN THOUGH I AGREE WITH SOME OF WHAT KOTOC IS SAYING:)I grew up in Chicago and have seen the man’s handiwork. I know exactly what Obama is all about, which is why I didn’t vote for him. (AND I’M BLACK) Believe me he certainly was a Muslim then and that ain’t all. You Liberal’s will see too. You can believe this also. HELL IS COMING!! Now, lets take this up more on a Political website!!
You are stupid and Unamerican. You wouldn’t know graffiti if it bit you in the ass! Also, you don’t know our history. Go back to whatever rock you crawled out from under. The idiots you speak of (democrats ) are probably from your party.
Oh, and no the vacations were not from contributors you idiot. We the taxpayers paid for them. Ignorant fool.
I will bet that there people who feel your house, the roads you drive on every day, and your just being here, defaces our beautiful country-side. And those things have no meaning to the rest of us like Mount Rushmore does. If your not happy here, then leave.
Spell much, know it all?
I can’t believe anyone would consider tis massive work of art graffiti. It honors our forefathers and should make you feel proud to live in America….Have you seen it for real? Or do you ever get outside your narrow minded box?
I agree! It was once a beautiful scenic area! Washingtton’s expense account during the revolution shows a $600. purchase for a horse? Look it up, it’s in the National Archives!
I’e been there & really enjoyed my visit there
I always wondered why these 4 Presidents and with a lot of reading found my answer. Washington for freedom, Jefferson for the law and doubling the size, Lincoln for holding the North and South together to preserve a United States and T. Roosevelt for helping preserve some of the land for the people with National Parks.
Thanks for providing that insight into the reasoning for including these four men. My wife and I were there 2 years ago and were quite impressed with the scale and artistry.
For others that plan to visit please add the Chief Crazy Horse memorial to your tour. It started construction in 1948 and isn’t expected to be finished for a long time.
I always just thought of it as an epic work of art of three land surveyors and that other guy.
This is surely will be included in the list of wonders of the world
Have been to Mt. Rushmore and the Black H ills area many times and can say that while the pictures are excellent, you really have to see it in person. Makes me proud to say I’m from South Dakota.
[…] Carved by Dynamite, Massive Founding Fathers at Mt. Rushmore [34 PICS] […]
New Hampshire lost its wonderful ” Old Man in the Mountain ” as the stone just gave way. I feel it would be appropriate to ban and aircraft flights near Mt. Rushmore that any vibrations caused by jet exhaust not have any possible damaging effect on this wonderful sculpture. Wisdom will preserve this artifact, lack of concern will lead to its ruin. There is a choice – lets take the wise one !
The old man in the moutain in New Hampshire was NOT a carving such as Mt. Rushmore. It was a natural rock formation that happened to look like an old man.
The old man in New Hampshire has fallen off the mountain.
This is a testament to the men who actually thought about their people and the future of the country before themselves. Now all Washington thinks about is money in their own pockets. We all need to go back to the Constitution and the Bible.
Amen, Becky!
The remark by Becky Gregg to get back to the Bible is the best suggestion, if we need to rebuild a better USA and Canada or world.
Let’s pray that happens in our life time.
That’s right, Becky. You nailed it! Also, what Linda King and Anthony Mendes said reflects my reaction to your comment as well.
I have been to Mt. Rushmore twice, and it is totally breathtaking.
Great pictures! Mount Rushmore is one of the places I have always wanted to visit and is on my list if places to see before I die. The arguing above as to the validity of spending the money for this was ridiculous. This is preserving for us and a reminder of the history of this country. As a veteran and “natural born” American, I hold all our national monuments as sacred places to remind us from which we have come! We in the United States seem to have forgotten where we came from and what it took to get where we are. We are too busy looking for handouts instead of working to get what we want and to put God and Country ahead of ourselves.
As a veteran but NOT a natural born citizen, I came here to the greatest land in the world by choice!
After reading all of these comments I am really shocked at the obvious lack of patriotism on the part of many of the contributors and by the same token would think on the lack of faith in a just God. One
thing this article has made me positive about… I WILL GO TO NORTH DAKOTA TO SEE THIS WONDER AND GREAT ACHIEVEMENT BY ORDINARY, COMMON, EVERY DAY WORKERS UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF EXPERTS!!! GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
Victor:
As a fellow veteran and CITIZEN, thanks for your service and care for this country. A minor issue, which may be pointed out by others, we’re from SOUTH Dakota.
What a wonderful tribute to the men who believed in “We The People” and who helped to build the foundation of America and the freedom’s we have enjoyed.
An Importent reminder to all Citizens of this great Country of the leadership and intregrety of our forefathers
I appreciate the history and information given above. I have been to Rushmore. It is a work of wonder and awe. Anyone who does not appreciate this beauty cannot be a TRUE AMERICAN. These are the men who formulated this FREE COUNTRY WE LIVE IN TODAY. GOD BLESS AMERICA
this is another why people should visit only in the USA. The National Parks are all beautiful. I do volunteer work in the parks.
I have visited this wonderful monument to those great men who founded, developed and maintained our great country a number of times since 1952. None of those experiences were as emotionally moving as the memorial service of 9-11-2002; there was not a dry eye to be seen. That experience would have impressed anyone, even TKH.
I’m not sure how anyone could refer to Mt. Rushmore as graffiti, a huge scar on our landscape or a total waste of money. If you’ve ever been there it is awe inspiring and unless you are a mis-placed American, it is impossible for me to understand how you could not burst with pride for these men and what they did to shape our wonderful country. Shame on you for minimizing the importance of this act of love for our country. I agree that money is squandered shamelessly by Congress, but this money was wonderfully spent and will identify the United States for generations.
As a native american, I believe the defacing of our sacred hills with the faces of the white-eyes is an abomination. T. Roosevelt and A. Lincoln were both terrible racists, and enemies of our people. How would the white-eyes like native american sculptors to carve Sitting Bull, Geronimo, Chief Joseph, and other native american leaders into the side of the Grand Canyon?
Cletus, if your people refer to Caucasians as “white eyes”, that makes YOU sound racist, and therefore your comment shows little tolerance of people who are not considered “Native Americans.” Did you consider the fact that you represent people of YOUR heritage? If YOUR people had carved into the Grand Canyon the faces of those who your people respected, there would have been NO complaint from the “white eyes,” as you put it. Instead, it would very likely have been considered another monument honoring our nation’s history.
Oh, and one more thing… it has been my understanding that anyone that was BORN in America is considered a “native American.” NOT the race of people who occupied it before it became civilized as we know our country to be today.
CIVILIZED ?
HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA …………
I was afraid part of the photos were men hauling coal up to carve #44, whew! I flew a Citabria close enough to see the pupil of Lincolns eye, NPS hasn’t called yet. Too bad the current White House doesn’t reflect what our fore fathers longed for and so many soldiers died for. “GOD BLESS AMERICA”.
I have a great idea for a needed public works project which could help to put returning war veterans to work. Lets get rid of the scree/rocky debris at the base of this amazing monument. I’m a clean-freak!
Come on now, that “scree/rocky debris” is a symbol of the massiveness of the project. Most of the veterans you refer to have some skills other than manual labor which can be used more productively than for that and other “make work” government projects. For that type of project why not require some of the 2nd, 3rd 4th + generations of able bodied, professional welfare recipients to earn their keep. If nothing else, it would probably thin out the welfare rolls! Then, use the money saved to do something useful, like closing our borders to more illegals, aka as undocumented visitors!
Why did someone have to turn these comments regarding the beauty and history of this project into political statements and get me sucked into it!
A Jefferson quote: “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” most appropriate for what is happening to our country right this second. we are losing our freedoms & i truly hope these 4 presidents cannot see what is going on
Excellent pictures, and the information on each photo is greatly appreciated! I’ve never visited Mt. Rushmore, but I admire the many, many men who did such a superb job carving it. I am also thankful that there were no fatalities during its construction. I just wonder how long it will be before our CURRENT president will want his face put up there too! LOL!
Right! How about next to the trash cans!
… Or into the urinals in the tourist center?
My apologies to those who voted for him, but I cannot find even ONE good thing he has ever done for our country.
Kotoc,
Bet you there are lots of people in Michigan who appreciate him
saving their pensions, jobs and homes. He has successfully given
veterans a chance to lower their mortgage payments by refinancing
at lower rates. But, you “CAN’T THINK OF ONE THING HE HAS DONE FOR
THIS COUNTRY.” We are also on the way to recovery.
Not to mention the millions that were unable to acquire insurance
because of pre-conditions or insurance that lapsed after losing jobs.
Seems you are speaking from a selfish standpoint. You direct your anger
at the WRONG PRESIDENT. I do not apologize after voting for President Obama.
After the TEA Party turns most of these Republicans loose, we are going to
see many more positive changes.As I mentioned in a previous reply, These people KNOW that they(Republicans)will be denied enough money (from the republican party) to run in the next election and
the Tea Party will run and back some other person to run against them.See Folks, we don’t have this country working for us. WE WORK FOR THEM AND ALL THE BIG MONEY ORGANIZATIONS. We are pawns !!!!!
What about the 300,000 people in Florida who are losing their Health Care coverage because of him!!
OH YEAH, YOU GO OBAMA, KEEP DOING GREAT THINGS FOR THIS COUNTRY!!
Before you blame the president,Lindylu please do some research and find out why,FLORIDA, TEXAS, ALABAMA, MISSISSIPPI and possibly a few other states are having problems. The Governors
of these states are Republicans and decided that they didn’t want theis type of healthcare for their state.Check it out!
Think that’s crazy, look at what TEXAS is demanding of voters concerning their I.D.
Yeah, good for the Republicans for not wanting this type of Socialized Health care in their State.
You’ll be complaining too when you have to be put on a waiting list for 2 years to see a doctor!!
Hope you or a dear family member don’t have any serious illnesses. My niece lives in Australia and they have Socialized Health care over there and she has a bad ear. She is on a waiting list and has an appointment a year from now. They don’t have half as many people over there as there are here in the States.
UMMMMMMM…….Lets see about 22 million in Australia and over 300 million here!! Really!! There is no way the government care pay for the Health care for that many people. Socialized health care only works in small countries. This Health care system is designed to do just what Obama wants it to do. DESTROY THE ECOMOMY!! Do you think for one minute that Obama and Congressmen are going to have this Health care? NO!! But, they are going to push it down our throats!! If its so good then why isn’t it good enough for Washington politicians? Obama his self when asked by Dr. Devinsky on national TV, if he wouldn’t want the best health care for his loved ones said. “WHY OF COURSE I WOULD WANT MY FAMILY AND LOVED ONES TO HAVE THE BEST HEALTH CARE.”
Dr. Orrin Devinsky, a neurologist and researcher at the New York University Langone Medical Center, said that elites often propose health care solutions that limit options for the general public, secure in the knowledge that if they or their loves ones get sick, they will be able to afford the best care available, even if it’s not provided by insurance. Devinsky asked the president pointedly if he would be willing to promise that he wouldn’t seek such extraordinary help for his wife or daughters if they became sick and the public plan he’s proposing limited the tests or treatment they can get.
The president refused to make such a pledge, though he allowed that if “it’s my family member, if it’s my wife, if it’s my children, if it’s my grandmother, I always want them to get the very best care.
“The end result would be a federal government takeover of our health care system, taking decisions out of the hands of doctors and patients and placing them in the hands of a Washington bureaucracy.” Once the Government gets involved in things, well it goes to the dogs. They can’t even take care of things in D.C. but oh yeah, they are going to handle Health care for 300 million people!! Sure hope Granny doesn’t need a Hip Replacement cause if she’s over 70, well she ain’t getting it. SO, THAT’S ALL I’M GOING TO SAY ABOUT THAT THERE!!
Why not ask Congressmen and women the same question about healthcare for their children. Guaranteed, they will give you the same answer President Obama gave the interviewer. Congress and the Senate VOTED THEMSELVES the special type of health care.You are NOT going to have a long waiting list to see doctors because you are free to choose YOUR OWN DOCTORS.
Since you feel that we are going to pay for 300 million people, who do you think was paying for the healthcare of the indigents before this bill came forward.You and I were paying for them anyway.
(charity Hospitals)
The Quote of the Decade:
“The fact that we are here today to debate raising America’s debt limit is a
sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the US Government cannot pay
its own bills. It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing financial
assistance from foreign countries to finance our Government’s reckless
fiscal policies. Increasing America’s debt weakens us domestically and
internationally. Leadership means that, ‘the buck stops here.’ Instead,
Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our
children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of
leadership. Americans deserve better.”
~Senator Barack H. Obama, March 2006
The Obama administration has spent more money in Obamas first 4 years as President than Bush did in his 8 years! Lets see now what are we about 300 trillion in debt.
Does anyone think we are going to bounce back from that and repay it? But yeah let’s pay 300 million peoples Health care!! There was a plan set in motion and we are all going to see it play out!
Situations change! Lets pray that YOU NEVER become one of the 300 million that need care.
President Bush (the first one) said, “READ MY LIPS, THERE WILL be NO NEW TAXES.” He asked congress to raise taxes and he got it……Situations change!
I’m in Texas and have a voter I.D., a concealed carry I.D., a Port Clearance I.D., a S.S. card, a Class 3 license and a Commercial Drivers license. I had no problems getting them. What’s their problem getting them?
Yeah you are right Shelly!! I am right in there with the lot of them. Enough said about Democrats and Republican’s. Get back to the issue at hand. MOUNT RUSHMORE!
Those of you who want to keep the debate going on who’s right and who’s wrong should open up a Political blog!!
This is not the place for it. My best to all of you!
Lindylu, why should all this be necessary? Florida said less than .03% voter fraud was discovered in the last election (presidential) for their state. Texas, I don’t know.
Strange how all at once, these electorates are concerned about voter fraud. During the civil rights era, no one but the ones denied the right to vote cared that you were asked questions like, how many bubbles are there in a bar of soap.(actual question on a form to register to vote) Think i”m lying ? Do your research. The electorate knew it applied ONLY to keep a certain population of this country from voting.Nobody said a damned thing. So, now it’s a NEW approach.
There is always a NEW set of rules when the tables are turned. Now it’s I.D.’s.
You have to live it to understand it. There are always new obstacles! The purpose is to disenfranchise a certain group or groups in the population.
@HWS remark….. How about on a milk carton?
Were you ever taught that if you can’t say something nice don’t say anything at all? And no I’m not a Democrat. Washington was opposed to political parties; he believed that one day they would overshadow what was in the best interest of the Nation & her people. Look at your awful comments and think of his genius to be able to foretell how an American would be so insulting to their President because he is from the ‘wrong’ party…for shame!!
@CEG… It’s not the political party we’re against, it’s the Socialist, narcissistic, egotistical person who is DELIBERATELY trying to bring our nation to its knees. Sum it up: a Muslim trying to destroy our government from within. Don’t tell me he’s not a Muslim… he said he is with his own words… and the Quran strictly tells that the “infidels” must be destroyed. Yep, that’s what he’s doing alright. Little by little, his administration is taking away our freedoms… starting with Obamacare and gun control. Thank God we still have freedom of speech, and we’re using that now before even THAT is taken away from us.
CEG. It’s got nothing to do with any political party and I completely agree with the comment by kotoc. Reminder, one of the men featured on Mt Rushmore is of Thomas Jefferson. EVERYTHING obama has done has been completely contradictoray to Jeffersons’ and Washingtons’ thoughts. I have every right to feel insulted because HE has insulted me. Also, remember this. No matter what obama does, he will never take away MY rights of freedom of speech like he did (or his cronies) with the Associated Press or James Rosen just due his association with Fox News! Get back into your history books…for shame.
Don’t be silly.
@Martha… “Don’t be silly”. …?? Does it really sound like we’re laughing? We’re talking about the monument honoring four presidents that really made a big difference in America’s history. This happened before you spoke your first words and long before politics meant anything to you. We’re adding to this discussion the fact that our CURRENT president is doing his best to undo everything our forefathers strived for to benefit the future of America, and our freedoms. It’s about money and power… and eventual control of everyone worldwide. Doesn’t that bother you? I just hope while you have your “fun” barbecue and get together with your 3-day weekend that you will at least pause to thank the people, our troops, that have given you the right to do so. You have the right to be “silly” now. Four years from now, how will you feel? It’s something to think about.
LIES, LIES, LIES !
Tsk tsk… Calvin, you’re sweating. You are in the wrong and you know it… you’re backed into a corner TRYING to convince everyone that your “messiah” isn’t all bad when all the WORLD is laughing at us for being foolish enough to keep that man in office. You cannot deny it, we’ve all seen it. And your pathetic “LIES, LIES LIES !” comment makes you look even more gullible and dumb. You refuse to acknowledge what is REALLY going on in our country because of him, because of your stubbornness and refusal to admit that this farce is a MISTAKE… made TWICE!!
Give it up and go away before you make a fool of yourself any more.
Well, as the old saying goes,”YOU DON’T MISS YOUR WATER ‘TIL YOUR WELL RUNS DRY .”
I have lived in Rapid City for 34 years. On a clear night I can see Mt. Rushmore glowing in the distance. It is. Such an honor to have something go grand in your back yard.
Have been to Mt Rushmore twice. It is beautiful and brings tears to eyes who are patriotic! It is a work of fantastic art! Hope it last forever . Visit South Dakota and Rushmore—you won’t be sorry!
HAVE BEEN THERE THREE TIMES…LOVED IT.IF YOU GO DON’T FORGET “CHEIF CRAZY HORSE” CARVING DOWN THE ROAD.
As an Englishman, who’s interest in all things America came from listening to Alistair Cooke on the BBC for many years, I never tire of seeing images like this.
I will never be able to visit America. I envy those that can and do, not to mention those of you who have seen this great monument.
Four of this nations founding fathers, set in a granite every bit as solid and unbreakable as the spirit that built this country.
God bless America!
God bless you too, Nigel!! ♥
A previous writer stated that he had flown a Citabria close enough to Lincoln’s eye to see the pupil. I once flew a Piper Cherokee close enough to view the grandeur of the Mt. Rushmore carvings, but not anywhere as close as the other fellow. It was still pretty amazing to see it from the air. I also have seen it from the ground, and the drive I took to get there was through some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable. Of course, all this was back in the sixties, and so the Crazy Horse sculpture hadn’t yet been done. I would like to go back and see that. It is quite amazing how some gifted people can look at a rock and see some entity inside just waiting to be released with a hammer and chisel. If you can manage to go, Mt. Rushmore is definitely worth the trip.
I really envy you, Jack. It must have been a very moving experience! If I had the money, and actually LIKED to travel far from home, this would be one of my destinations for sure. I have a fear of heights that is crippling, and get a gripping anxiety of being too far from home, plus memories of being forced to sit hour after hour after hour, day after day living out of a suitcase when I was a kid in the back seat of our family car on vacations. It was no fun for me at all.
Great Pictures! I’ve visited twice. What a wonderful sight/site. Only three million visitors a year seems ashame that’s all who visit?. SD is a fantastic state. Cheers Nigel…liked your post.
How come all I hear is how this great monument is eroding?
I can close my eyes are remember the first time I witnessed Mount Rushmore. My husband and I had been driving into the wee early morning hours. Somewhere up in the hills – (I had no idea where we were) – he rounded a corner and the roadway suddenly became somewhat straight. Directly in front of us – looming in the stark glare of the full moon’s light – a glorious face! It was just unreal. There – almost like a religious experience – was the profile of the great GEORGE WASHINGTON.
It was so beautiful – we just stopped the car and I cried. We were experiencing the most majestic moment! Decades have passed and we still talk of what a perfect evening that was…
The following day, as we were touring the park grounds, artist’s studio and admiring the gigantic relief sculptures on the side of the granite mountain, the local S.D. / Public TV station asked to interview me. It was very pleasing to have the opportunity to express how beloved the faces, the men and their deeds were — and therefore, how treasured Mount Rushmore was too.
The photos here on this site are outstanding.
I think it was the Lacota of the northern plains who thought the mountain housed the spirits of their ancestors. Instead the mountain was blasted and scraped until it resembled some of our past, dead political heros… not very personal… not too inspiring without nationalistic zeal. I am proud of much of my American heritage, but I can do without the iconic destructiveness.
I first saw Mt Rushmore as a child in the 50’s and loved it so much, I had to take my own family to see it recently. The first time I was there, it was very rustic, just a rock wall people could drive to stand and look. I shouldn’t have been surprised to see the new buildings and crowds there now, but it didn’t take away from the beauty of the monument.
I love the monument, it is so inspiring and to Dick S., I couldn’t agree more Sir.
Some misguided Georgetown University professors have suggested that our current President should be added to this monument. No wonder our young people are so misguided if these so-called teachers are the norm rather than the exception. A more appropriate location might be on the rocks at Alcatraz facing Nancy Pelosi and Dianne Feinsteins San Francisco.
Well spoken, AncientHoosier! The narcissism of our current President is… well, if his head matched his ego, Mt. Rushmore presidents images would compare to four marbles placed side by side on an anthill.
We have been to Mt. Rushmore a number of times and marvel at its grandeur and significance. I particularly appreciate that the work was done by unemployed men and women who would otherwise be on the ‘dole’. I would much rather see government handouts being made for productive work rather than for doing nothing. It had to have been a huge self-esteem builder for the workers on Mt. Rushmore to see the accomplishment of their labor. Roosevelt himself proposed the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) and WPA (Works Progress Administration). Couldn’t more projects like this be done in this day and age using unemployed/impoverished/indigent folks who are getting paid some kind of public funded welfare anyway?
It would never happen, Jan. You don’t seem to get the concept of “get-something-for-nothing-except-your-vote-mentality” of our current administration and illegal immigrants. If it were me, I’d have them doing something more in the line of picking up litter along the highways, or perhaps cleaning out Port-O-Potties or public restrooms in order to get a paycheck.
Not the Same Roosevelt.
Too bad the Indians didn’t require that same menial work for your ancestors when they arrived on these bright shores long ago Kotoc. We seem to forget that we were here without anyones approval and tried to kill them ( Indians) off in order to take the lands from them.
Mr. Slay:
Which Indians exactly are you referring to? Throughout history, one tribe would drive another from the Black Hills. Also from my educational experience, many historical Native Americans did not believe the land could be “owned”. I believe there was an old adage “to the victor goes the spoils”.
Doesn’t mean it was right, just a fact.
First of all, Calvin… let me correct your first sentence. “Too bad the Indians didn’t require that same menial work FROM your ancestors… etc.” Also, may I remind you that when our ancestors arrived on “these bright shores long ago” they didn’t expect that to settle here, they would have to fight for their lives and risk getting scalped, vandalized, their wives and daughters raped and their homes burned to the ground. Our beloved “Native Americans” are far more civilized now than they were when we arrived. I won’t apologize for anything MY ancestors did… will you?
Yes kotoc, I will apologize. We invaded their civilization just as many in this country now believe that the immigrants are invading our civilization. Why is it that we as americans believe that we are always right. We, with the aid of our military have wreaked havoc all over the world.Militarily, we moved the Indians from one location to another because of the discovery of gold or some other greedy reasons. At one time, Indians occupied everything from Canada to Argentina.We killed them off and took it all. Strange how you mention rape of the pioneer women. As if the settlers didn’t rape Indian women. Not to mention how many of the slave women were raped.
Remember why we went into Iraq. Supposedly because of weapons of mass destruction. However, we find out later after we have killed off many of it’s citizens and desroyed the country,dethronedand and killed a dictator, there are no weapons of mass destruction. IT WAS ALL ABOUT GAINING ACCESS TO THE OIL!
My father always taught us, “if it’s your brother and he’s wrong, he’s wrong.”
I try and use that as my mantra
Why is it that EVERY conversation heard over the last 5 years bames Bush for Iraq? By the way, how many of his own people did Sadam kill? OIL? No it wasn’t however, if it was just how much have we received from Iraq? ZERO! Stay with the cowboys and indians–you are better versed at that. One more comment Calvin and I will NOY apologise. I spent 22 years of my life in the Navy defending YOUR right of freedom of speech! Hardly seems worth while!
VERY WELL SAID!! HWS, and thanks for serving with our “horrible” military so people like Slay can blither.
Dick, When you mentioned, “look at how many of his own people Saddam killed.” I thought, how many times did I hear that on the news. I wondered how many of this country’s people were killed at the hands of the police and unrestrained citizens during the Civil Rights era. Americans killing their own citizens. You need not reply because I don’t expect you to understand that the situation is the same. Saddam’s people wanted their freedom and the same went for people who were protesting their place in society in America. Is that so hard to understand ?
Okay Calvin, Where exactly did I say that??
Dick, glad I saved the piece. You made a statement to HWS concerning my statement about Saddam,oil and etc. I am putting your entire statement in quotations.
“Very well said !! HWS and thanks for serving with our “horrible” military so people like Slay can blither.”
Exactly as you wrote it
Then you need to wake up!! I was telling the person well-said, I said nothing about Saddam, only about how, even though you wear your service as a badge, you seem to not think much of our military.
KOTOC, I beg your pardon. I am the one that spent two years of my life defending your right to freedoms. I was born in Mississippi, with no freedoms. No freedom of the jobs I wanted. No freedom of the schools I wanted to attend.(there were many of us wanting to further our education by obtaining doctorate degrees, but were not offered the doctorate degrees in segregated black schools.) So, the only alternative was to go out of state. to many, this was financially impossible. A beginning teacher(black ) making 1500.00 dollars a year less in the school system “because it took more for a beginning white teacher to live.” Now who ever figured that out. No freedom of speech for fear of being killed or burned out for speaking out as was proven by the deaths of the Reverand Martin L. King and many,many more who created my freedom. No freedom of equal pay for the same work as mentioned above (if) you were fortunate enough to get it. No freedom of going into a clothing store to try on clothing. No freedom of eating or sleeping at any motel or hotel after a long days drive to far off places. So, don’t tell me about your 22 years of defending my freedoms.
I defended YOUR freedoms with my two years in the military. In a class A uniform, I was denied entrance into a bar to have a cool beer. I realized that I was in this uniform to defend this man’s
right to keep me “in my place.” I was fighting for his right to keep America segregated.
No, my friend I am sorry to inform you that you shed not one sleepness night in harms way to protect my freedoms. I spent two years of mine to protect yours!
My freedoms were brought about by Men and women NOT in uniform, but by indiviuals with a strong desire to change situations that were unAmerican. I need not print their names because They will live throughout time. These were the TRUE soldiers! I think of the Tuskegee Airmen fighting as hard as any other soldier and coming home and not being able to go into a coffe shop and have a cup of coffee, or vote, or drink from a certain water fountain. I too have been there.I understand why many of the soldiers in WW11 remained in Europe after serving. They were treated like human beings. God bless the many that gave their lives on the AMERICAN BATTLEFIELD. Facing police, police dogs, water hoses, brutal beating and death at the hands of the police and gangs of citizens who were not restrained, but given free access to participate in a blood bath by people they fought to protect in foreign wars. Pray for the mothers of those that lie in unmarked graves in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and countless other place because they were denied JUSTICE. Also pray for the American Indians and peoples across the world that were slaughtered by the hands of the greedy.
Dear HWS,
I inadvertantly sent the following reply to KOTOC. The letter was meant for you in reply to your 22 years of service dedicated to my freedoms. It begins……….
I beg your pardon. I am the one who spent two years of my life defending YOUR right to freedoms.
I was born in Mississippi with no freedoms. No freedoms of the job I wanted. No freedom of the schools I wanted to attend, (there were many of us wanting to further our education by obtaining Doctorate degrees, but were not offered Doctorate degrees in segregated Black schools) So,the only alternative was to go out of state. To many this was financially impossible. A beginning teacher(black) making 1500.00 dollars a year less in the school system “because it took more for a beginning white teacher to live.” Now, who ever figured that out. No freedom of speech for fear of being killed or burned out for speaking out as was proven by the deaths of The Reverand Martin L. King and many , many more who created my freedom. No freedom of equal pay for the same work as mentioned above (if) you were fortunate enough to get it. No freedom of going into a clothing store to try on clothing. No freedom of eating or sleeping at any motel or hotel after a long days drive to far off places. So,don’t tell me about your 22 years of defending MY freedoms.
I defended YOUR freedom with my two years in the military. In a class A uniform, I was denied entrance into a bar to have a cool beer. I realized then that I was in this uniform to defend this man’s right “to keep me in my place.” I was fighting for his right to keep America segregated.
No, my friend. I am sorry to inform you that you shed not one sleepless night in harms way to protect my freedoms. I spent two years of mine to protect yours. My freedoms were brought about by men and women NOT in uniform, but by individuals with a strong desire to change situations that were unamerican . I need not print their names because they will live throughout time. These were the TRUE soldiers! I think of the Tuskegee Airmen, fighting as hard as any other soldier coming home and not being able to go into a coffee shop and enjoy a cup of coffee, or vote or drink from a certain water fountain. I too have been there. I understand why many of the soldiers serving in WW11 remained in Europe after serving.THEY WERE TREATED LIKE HUMAN BEINGS! God bless the many that gave their lives on the AMERICAN BATTLEFIELD. Facing Police, Police Dogs, water hoses,brutal beatings at the hands of Policeand Gangs of citizens who were not restrained,but given free access to participate in a blood bath by people they fought to protect in foreign wars.
Pray for the mothers of those who lie in unmarked graves in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and countless other places. Because they were denied JUSTICE. Also pray for the American Indians and peoples across the world that were slaughtered by the hands of the greedy!
“My father always taught us, “if it’s your brother and he’s wrong, he’s wrong.”’… Does that mean you are obliged to take responsibility for HIS actions as well as your own? The way you make it sound, if a member of your family commits murder, the entire family should go to prison. I won’t apologize for the actions of anyone but myself. You seem to be a bit self righteous in this area… so noble, to assume the guilt of your forefathers for their wrongdoings. Go right ahead, it’s fine with me. LOL!
No, ” if it’s your brother……………” simply meant that you can still love him as your brother. But, you are not obligated to support him in his wrong doings.
Mr. Slay… I beg YOUR pardon, but who ever said I spent 22 years defending your freedom? Are you simply taking your anger out on me for some reason? Thank you for spending 2 years of your life in a class A uniform defending my freedom, but I never ONCE said any of those things about MY life. I think you should pay closer attention to whom you are speaking to and make sure you have your facts straight before you go on an ignorant rampage like that. It makes you look foolish.
Kotoc, I sincerely apologize to you concerning the comment about you spending 22 years of your life defending my freedoms. That comment was made by HWS and was seconded by Dick Schaffan.
I do apologize.
Your apology is accepted and I also offer MY apology to you for being offensive. I should really know better than to behave the way I did.
I think now would be a good time to put this whole issue to rest, and leave the further comments on this site for Mt. Rushmore. Is that okay with everyone else??
AGREED !
I first visited the memorial on our skip-day in May 1952 and then again in September 2006. What a difference in the viewing area. It is worth the trip and I hope before my death, I will again be able to visit it. The Crazy Horse monument will not be finished in our lifetime. It is a awesome effort and will be every bit as beautiful as the Rushmore Memorial. I grew up in Glenham, South Dakota and our class of 13, which started with 16 worked hard to raise money so that we might spend a week in the Black Hills before graduation. We also ran up Harley Peak. Cool and raining at the bottom but snow at the top.
What a memorable experience! I’ve never heard of the “Crazy Horse” monument before now. What a moving sight that must have been! My parents visited Mt. Rushmore years ago, and all they told me was they were somewhat disappointed that it wasn’t as big as they thought it would be. I would like to see it for myself. {*sigh*} I’ll have to Google it and see if there’s a decent video that does it justice.
I have seen both and Crazy Horse, which was privately funded is ever bit as amazing as Rushmore.
I have seen Mt. Rushmore many, many times and now live about one and a half hours away. When we lived in Nebraska our family visited it and have watched the progress of the Crazy Horse monument from the very beginning, and it also is very impressive. I can’t even imagine what it must have taken to carve Mt. Rushmore, but it IS SO VERY IMPRESSIVE in the daytime, nighttime, and the fireworks display over it when the weather permits is a beautiful sight to behold!
Hi Roman. It’s been a long time since we worked together at Toul.
The wife and I are going on vacation next week to Salt Lake City, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons,
and Mount Rushmore. I was pleasantly surprised to see your comment on the Mount Rushmore Memorial.
Hope you’re enjoying your retirement. I’m in the Tampa area.
Dennis
This is absolutely beautiful. I have been there in person and it takes your breath away! I wish I could go back again when I had more time to appreciate it. I was super impressed with the deer who walk amongest the tourist and very calmly graze on the grass while you are visiting. What a wonderful experience it was.
Like Nigel, I too am an English man, I HAVE visited this site also Crazy Horse,
A beautiful and emotional experience, we in Great
Britain have a long and varied heritage which many nations covet…These sculptored effigies are Your the American peoples heritage and will fill future generations with pride and a sense of history which comes at no little cost.
As a feat of engineering and American ‘know how’ This monument certainly deserves all the acclamations published here and in the past.
Long live democracy and freedom!
Mike (In memory of my late buddy , Dave. thanks for bringing me to see Mount Rushmore
It is interesting reading the comments about MT. Rushmore! I say this because Charles Rushmore was my Great great Grand Uncle (my Grandmothers uncle). There is only one comment about CR; he was an attorney in New York who addressed the Supreme Court to uphold the right of South Dakota to maintain “ownership” of Mount Rushmore and the whole indian territory in the SW corner of SD. Although this has nothing to do about the “carving”; it is a small part of the history of the mountain. I have had the experience of seeing the mountain around 1960. I hope to see it again. I have enjoyed the comments – even the “negative” ones. God Bless!
EXCELLENT PHOTOS…
To bad more of the “old” views were not included – The one with the unfinished head, and gravel road with the car on it down below is right beyond that tunnel that “frames” the faces. The first time I saw that view, on 16A, I was like 6 yr old and we had just buried my Grandmother up in Spearfish, SD – that was 1954. My uncles ran the family ranch out west of Spearfish, the MEINK Bros. place. We ate in what later became the “visitors center”, with the wall of windows viewing the faces – the pine trees were all below he edge there then, in the stone patio. That’s all that was there then…parking was a gravel lot that kind of “ran down the side of the access road”. The tailings pile appeared “treeless”, all the way down the side, which you could see without trees in the way… Fast forward to “now”…what a change!
I can remember stopping on the road in front of that tunnel to take photos – there were very few visitors back then…and, stopping to view the “Needles”…and, the “wild mules” along the way in from custer..they would stick their heads right in your car if you let them…panhandling for treats. Life was “slower” back then…mostly memories from the 50’s and 60’s. My mother later moved back to the ranch and Spearfish, where she died in 1994. They were married in the Spearfish Hotel in 1936 – they watched the faces being carved until WW-II. My father’s family owned the hotel at that time – with the running water thru the fountain in the lobby, that had 2 or 3 very large trout in it..with moss on their backs!..My dad actually worked in the Homestake Mine up in Lead/Deadwood, mining gold, before the war.
The Black Hills of SD are a national treasure and these Face’s are a fitting tribute to our nations’ beginnings. Anyone that remembers the depression and the following years – where a meal was enough to get someone to work for a day – in the sun or snow…without OSHA, without complaint. The amount spent on this project was a “drop in the bucket”, even then…and, YES…they did take up collections/donations as well; my Uncles donated to it themselves, every year. Remember Hoover Dam? It was a “project” during the depression too. How many remember the CCC projects? That was how our Govt. managed to keep our people/citizens alive during those years! Alone with some very big hearted folks that SHARED what they had, with those that didn’t have!… Today, all we have is welfare and fraud. GOD BLESS EVERY TRUE AMERICAN!.
@ Mel in Montana (now): What a wonderful thing you did by sharing your experiences with us! Thank you!! I can only imagine what it must have been like.
The only thing I can remember from MY childhood at about that age that made national news (at the time) was when the sniper, Charles Whitman, killed a lot of people from the tower of the University of Texas’ main building. (My dad was IN the building when it happened, on the first floor, and was unaware of what was going on outside, and he took our family later that night to see the blood stains on the places where…)*** :^(
I, too, have been to Mt. Rushmore, several times. Gives me a sense of pride every time I’m there!!
The first time was in 1939 or 1940, when my dad was returning from WY, CO & CA on one of his annual shearing treks. Back then we were allowed to ride a little cable car to the top of Washington’s head! Imagine being able to do something like that in today’s society!! ha
Also flew by it in a Cessna 220 HP Skylark, but stayed a little farther away, due to current regulations from a National Monument.
Tho’t about landing on Devil’s Tower a time or two in a 180 HP Super Cub when I was in the area doing some aerial spraying, but candied out! DWP
Unbelievable, the pictures and some of the crazy comments.
Will Obama be added to Mt. Rushmore as the president who led us into socialisam?
Obama will be added if they can find a lump of coal that big. But wait, I forgot Obama HATES coal.
Mr Cooper,
Real comedians out of work and you think you’re funny !
Paul Loyd, you have NO idea of what socialism consists. Did you ever give thought to what our Congressmen and Senators are doing to you and us? Think about a job with all the perks, free medical care for your whole family. Serve one term and you get a salary for the rest of your life. Martha Stewart went to prison for inside trading. Your congressman gets to accumulate riches because he or she has a PRIVILEGE to do inside trading. THIS IS SOMETHING THEY AWARDED THEMSELVES!We sat back and let them get away with itRemember all the tax deductions we had at one time: taxes on gasoline, taxes on other purchases we made suah as clothing, groceries and other goods. Well, they took that away. About the only write off you have now is your mortgage. Prior to the last election, several of them offered to look into inside trading,,,,,,,,,,have you heard anything about it lately. (don’t answer that) These people have put our heads so far up our asses we can’t see how badly we are being duped ! But we can always see how helping the working man is always some communist, socialist idea. AMERICA, when you finally wake up, I hope it’s NOT TOO LATE. We have a President who is trying to help the working man and you call him a socialist! Look at what happened when we gave up our so called freedom for that HOMELAND SECURITY ACT. You haven;t seen anything yet. Was it Benjamin Franklin who said,”If you are afraid of freedom, you don’t deserve it.” KEEP SLEEPING !
@Calvin Slay: What you said, ” We have a President who is trying to help the working man and you call him a socialist!”
Define the word “socialist,” if you please. Is it not the redistribution of money? Is it NOT taking from the rich to give to the poor? Charities are for THAT purpose, my friend. His modern-day-Robin-Hood approach to solving our nation’s economic problems will only last for so long before you tax people out of their money until there isn’t any money left to take. The people who you THINK our current president is helping keep demanding more and more, and businesses are FAILING because they cannot afford to keep paying and paying. It’s the entrepreneur that provides JOBS for people. Don’t tell me you are not aware of that one simple fact.
Kotoc, are you back AGAIN ? I am totally aware that it takes the people with the money to create jobs. But, all the working man is asking for is a fair wage to support his family. When you work a man for nothing,it tells me that YOU ARE NOTHING! It all boils down to greed. Henry Ford understood that. So, he paid his workers a fair wage so they could buy his automobiles. NOW THAT IS ENTREPRENEURSHIP. HENRY WAS HAPPY, THE WORKERS WERE HAPPY. Where were you when President Reagan fired the air traffic controllers. His intentions were to break unions. He also is responsible for the lack of health care we have for the mentally ill. Many on the streets today are mentally incompetant. I learned from Bill Maher that waitresses earn $2.13 an hour,(standard )
So, if ytou don’t tip…………….? Oh, by the way, this is controlled by congress and lobbyists . It’s not TAKE ALL THE MONEY FROM THE RICH….IT’S SHARE THE WEALTH. We once fought a war over working people for nothing ! By the way, ask your congressman if he or she is willing to take a cut in pay to help keep this country afloat. BET EACH OF THEM WILL SAY, “SURE” LOL
Mr. Slay:
Do you have to wear an oxygen mask when you’re perched so high on that ivory tower? How about the lady who went on national television and said “we have to re-elect Obama ’cause he gives us the free stuff”! Republican or Democrat, this country has to stop handing out the “free stuff”.
Dear Mr Schaffan,
“FREE STUFF”. as you put it, is what the rich are getting. When a person pays you $7.50 cents an hour for labor, that’s virtually free! Lobbyists take care of them and NOT the working man. Who do you have up there (congressmen and Senators) to represent you. If you think you are truly being represented by the people you voted for, you sure do have your head up your rectum. How much FREE STUFF do you think the congressmen and Senators are getting for free from US (tax payers) and the lobbyists. Like I said in my previous response, TIME TO WAKE UP AMERICA. These people have taken the “WE THE PEOPLE” from us and we will NEVER get it back until we make some drastic decisions about taking care of OUR futures and NOT THEIRS. That HOMELAND SECURITY ACT IS JUST THE BEGINNING. Dick, I hate to tell you this, but gullible people like you are helping them to do it. ALL IN THE NAME OF PATRIOTISM! I repeat and quote Benjamin Franklin: “If you are afraid of freedom, you don’t deserve it.”
First, you don’t know me well enough, and are not big enough to call me “gullible”. Second, I see Noem, Johnson, and Thune twice a year in DC. I’m happy with the way I’m represented. Maybe not so much, those other people. Third, I wish I was “all-seeing” like you, or like you seem to think you are, I believe your man Obama was a congressman once, has he suddenly changed stripes?
Dick Schaffan,
I am trying to understand what your inference, “you are not big enough to call me gullible” is referenced. My intention was to create a dialogue. Fisticuffs are not my way of communicating. Words are “mightier than the sword.” If you were offended, so be it! If you take the time to look into President Obamas’ record as a congressman, you can see that he was pro working and poor people. Even before he became a congressman, he was a community organizer. Helping disadvantaged people (no voice) access local and state government. So, you have an opportunity to go to Washington twice a year to see Noem, Johnson and thune. Chances are they NEVER address issues concerning big busines or corporate america and how we are being screwed by them. Example, the insurance companies. The presidents health care bill is going to do wonders for people. Just think, previously if you had an illness prior to buying insurance, you were not covered. NOW YOU ARE! Is that asking for something for free? Maybe because YOU don’t have a certain illness,you don’t feel the sffects of it. But, people effected ,thank God that the blessing came in time to help them financially and mentally. As far as being, “ALL SEEING”,you too have that ability Dick. It’s as simple as taking your head out of your ass! Remember when President Reagan talked about the woman in Chicago who was bilking the welfare system for roughly $150.00 a year. Well, they finally found out that this woman was a figment of President Reagans’ imagination. His speech writers came up with that beauty. But, just think of how many people spread the word around about this imaginary woman. I remember hearing the story from several people I worked with during that period. So, pick on the poor and the working man. Keep the minds of the people on them and they won’t recognize that we,(CONGRESS, SENATE and Corporate America) ARE SCREWING THEM TO DEATH! There was no one to defend them if they were non-union. BUT, THERE IS NOW!
“I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed,
but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must stand with anybody that
stands right, and stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he
goes wrong.” Abraham Lincoln
…and so I part with you Mr. Slay.
Dick Schaffan,
Maybe we found a friend in each other Dick. At least we had a chance to communicate.
I have no anger with you and I assume you have non with me. However, it was a pleasure to meet you.
My Grandfather,Alfred Berg was the head “POWDER MONKEY”. He blasted with dynamite on the Presidents. My grandmother Sylvia had a cafe and boarding house at the site. My Uncles were water boys. I have only been there once and was totally amazed how large they were. I was in Awe. I would like to return some day as this is a spectacular vision. This is My heritage and I am proud to be an American. Thanks to my cousin Sandy Berg for sending me this.
Patricia:
We South Dakotans owe your family our gratitude for helping create this historical legacy in fact and in support. Thank you.
Patricia,
Ditto what Dick Schaffan said… we are grateful for this magnificent monument that display the most respected presidents that made a big difference in America’s history and development. It’s VERY well done! You must be very proud of your family’s involvement in something so significant and revered!
Too bad that Mount Rushmore has to be the center of people’s racial beliefs. Folks should keep that argument to themselves or on a different venue such as editorials, etc.
I was raised about 6 miles as the crow flies from the site to the east. I walked or road a horse to Hayward one room school in the 5th and 6th grade. That was in the early ’50’s. I could look over and see the “Faces” en route everyday. Didn’t pay much attention to them back then. Since moving to Oregon in 1966, I’ve been to Mount Rushmore more times than when I lived there. Go figure!
My uncle, Orval Doyle, worked at the mountain and my father made a lot of special tools used to carve the memorial while he was superintendent at Baumgartner’s machine shop in Rapid.
Jon,
That is why we will always have this subject to talk about. Nobody wantsd to confront it. Keep it in the dark and it will go away. NO IT WILL NOT !
Perhaps what Jon was trying to say is that this is not the proper format for that discussion.
Dear Jan Slawik,
Hope that horse you ROAD was able to stay on the RODE from which you overlooked the “faces”.
It’s a shame that no mention is made in comments with any pictures if Luigi Del Bianco, the chief carver of Mount Rushmore from 1933-1940…
Luigi Del Bianco, an Italian Immigrant, played an important part in bringing to life this great American monument. For reasons unknown, many authors on the subject of Rushmore have chosen not to mention Luigi and his many contributions to the work. There is a website to give him the recognition he truly deserves.
We didn’t mention him because we didn’t see him mentioned anywhere with the image details/background data etc. From the link you provided, Gutzon Borglum, Designer of Mount Rushmore, said:
“He is worth any three men I could find in America, for this particular type of work.”
I loved the pictures! My son and his family live in Spearfish SD and we’ve visited Mt. Rushmore. It’s so impressive!
Then, I started reading the comments posted here and got absolutely turned off by all the racist and political remarks. Folks, this isn’t the place for such remarks. Go find a political blog or find something to do to help the world. We have a fairly elected President. Get over it already.
I loved the pictures and the commentary about the pictures and Mt. Rushmore. I DETEST the political comments that just go on and on and on. Come on folks, you’ve said your piece. Those of you that are still perpetuating this dialogue need to take it somewhere else. I’m thinking you just like to “hear” yourself “talk”, whatever the venue.
We went here in 1993, with our friends Kay and Charlie. We all agreed it was worth the trip out West as one of the things that was on our “Bucket List”. It should be on every ones list. We have showed the still pictures and video that we made to all our children and grand children, telling them of it’s importance to all Americans. The people who are saying it was a waste of money and time are the people that do not appreciate the talent that Americans have. They also probably have never been there .
I challenge the copy that states that the faces were finished between 1934 and 1938. I have a photo taken ca 1940 of my sister and me standing before only two faces. I was born in 1932, my sister in 1934.
Love One Another
I first saw this wonderful piece of artwork in ’78 and was very impressed with the ambition and serenity of the site. I also knew that the land in which it lies is sacred to the First Nation from which it was taken, as mentioned in photo #15.
Just this past month I passed through again and was amazed at the ‘progress’ made in this little corner of America. First of all, parking was not free for the frontal viewing as before and our ‘disabled lifetime pass’ was not honored. O.K., the NPS does not have the Gov.funding as before. We were able to view only G.W.’s profile from a free pull off which was fine for me, for I came to pay my respects to the spirit of the land and I could get away from the tourists privately enough to do so.
Sad to say, the drive back through Keystone and the ‘tourist trap’ it has become made me ‘sick to my psyche’. It’s not that I am un-American, but the disrespect for a ‘conquered nation’ that lives in the shadow of there Holy Land. As stated in photo #13, the time is still at hand to which we must stand to ”determine whether Americans are to be freemen or slaves; etc”. True patriotism is not fighting for the OILGARCHY and the CORPORNATION, but to uphold the principles on which our great nation was founded.
My new bride and I honeymooned there 35 years ago. These photos are nearly as breathtaking as being there. Thank you for this pictorial preservation.
The size and scope of this work is still TRULY amazing….. I think I appreciate it more after seeing these pictures and reading the history. Crazy Horse sculture, still under way I think, is equally amazing and very near by. I was there in 1999 to see both.
I was raised in Sargent County N.D. and have only seen this marvile on film have never had the
pleasure,now live in Mo. and at 84years may never.
You are all missing the point here. This sculture is beautiful, have only seen it once but was struck in awe by the likeness of all 4 of them. I too served our country as one of the few and the proud, United States Marine Corps. In a war we all hated but unlike a lot of our brave men I did not run for Canada. I remembered this and volunteered, and also liked the job they are doing on Crazy Horse, a Lacota Sioux, I am 1/3 Sious and can hardly wait for this to be finished. Probably won’t be in my life time, but we bought a small statue of what it will look like and it will be awsome. It will be bigger then our four Presidents, but only because we took over their Sacred Black Hills. good luck to you all and worrying about our problems brought on by the election of a man we did not need in that office for another 4 years. Enjoyed your comments, but most were just running off at the mouth. Stop and Think.
Great pictures but only two of the figures are of our Founding Fathers.
The carving of these president’s is amazing and a work of art. As for the many interesting comments, we would not be able to say all these things if we were not free and had freedom of speech that many in the world don’t have. We have much to be grateful for.
There is one thing I would like to say to all of the Obama supporters in here. I am Christian and was married to a Muslim for about 10 years. I really thought we could put our religious differences aside and make a go of it. We resided in New York, and the thinking is more diverse in this area to begin with. I convinced myself it would work…that we could move past out religious beliefs and make a go of it. It didn’t work out. He was accepting of my faith but his family was not. One thing I learned from the experience and will never forget, however, is that the Muslims hold their Quran so sacred that they believe that a non-Muslim should be put to death for quoting from it, or even opening the Quran and reading from it for that matter. To hear our president quote from the Quran time after time tells me all I need to know about where he stands. Then he started appointing Muslims to key positions in our government, and if there was any doubt, it is truly gone now. What the individual posted earlier is correct….they do believe that we should all be put to death, and they also believe that it is perfectly acceptable to “LIE” to the infidels as well, and that’s all we have been seeing from this administration. The Benghazi scandal alone should have put an end to this administration. I don’t understand why people can’t see it.
@Connor: I am so sorry about how you were deceived. When you love and trust someone enough to MARRY them and then find out later what’s behind the scenes must have been really painful for you. It’s a sad fact that what you stated here, that too many people are unwilling to admit, is going on every day in many countries. Islam is a peaceful religion?? Yeah, and Adolph Hitler was a nice guy too… NOT!!
I saw those four presidents on Rushmore when I was a green 8 year old in 1936. I only remember that I was not awed for some reason, but that my dad, a history buff, was overwhelmed by the fact that sculptures were even begun, much less completed as they were.
I too am a history buff and my main hero is Abe Lincoln. I have studied him and the Civil War for over 80 years and am convinced that he took on a task far more difficult than even Washington had in beginning the building of a Union of 13 states to become America. Lincoln indeed saved that Union. He did it at the cost of his life and the lives of almost two million other Americans of both sides.
Imagine if you can what would be here today if Lincoln had failed!
Had those eleven states successfully seceded and finalized the Confederacy, there would have been two nations where one had existed. But because of that turmoil and the precedent it would have set, neither of those two would have lasted more than a few years, because other states would have decided to split away from those left in the old Union by their petty differences, and from the Confederate states as well for the same reasons. No doubt by the beginning of the 20th Century, the new millennium would have dawned on at least 6 or more conglomerations of states, each professing to be the Real Original, the only, United States of America.
How would those new “United States” have been able to come to the aid of the Allies in WWI or more especially in WWII had Europe managed to keep together in 1919? Can there be any doubt that WWII would have seen Hitler emerge with his Thousand Year Reich controlling the earth, had America not once again become the savior of Western Civilization by 1945?
To me, Mt. Rushmore epitomizes the fact that God created a miracle, and that America is and has been, God’s chosen nation…then and hopefully…for all time
Thank you Kotoc. You know, we remain friendly although I seldom see him. He was a pacifist, and he always told me that Muslims really don’t believe in violence….that those that would bomb and kill and resort to terrorist acts are radicals and fanatics. He would argue with his friends and family a lot. I picked up some Arabic over the years…enough to know that there is a vast difference in interpretation of the Quran. It didn’t help that he was married to a Christian. It was a constant battle for both of us, and when I saw he was becoming withdrawn and distant I decided to walk away. Many Muslims are not tolerant of other religions or beliefs at all. Their upbringing and the teachings of their faith solidifies that thinking, I believe.
Anyway, I came away from that experience with a good deal of mistrust. Truly, if it is encouraged to lie to the infidels, and they believe we are infidels, and that all infidels must die then, I feel it is only wise to be on guard, and I limit my association with them quite a bit now. If that makes me judgemental, well, that’s something I can live with.
Huh? What does any of your comment have to do with Mount Rushmore? If you don’t like something, don’t go see it, but don’t get on a “subject” that has NOTHING to do with this fantastic monument!
Connor, I appreciate your candid and honest response to what MANY people worldwide have come to believe about the Islam religion. Although I also believe that it’s the fanatics that promote and do violence against Jews and Christians, there is still that inherent, deep down disdain for anyone who isn’t a Muslim. After the 9-11-01 terrorist attack on America, I saw videos of people in the Middle East who were dancing in the streets and celebrating. Nobody can convince me that they aren’t of the Islam religion. What really disturbs me most is that they are invading the world like a plague of cockroaches. Breeding and breeding, because nobody has the guts to call in the exterminator (or deportation department.) Political correctness, you know. Freedom of religion, you know. Before long, we’d all better know how to speak Arabic if we want to survive in our very near future.
I’m very glad you got away from that marriage when you did. You must know you did the right thing.
[…] at Mount Rushmore National Memorial ended a day full of patriotic entertainment and celebrations. Paul Sweeney said, “How often […]
Got to get up there and see it before I go.
Its a magnificent site to see. Been there and did the tour. Every american should visit it.
Let’s get past the racism and negativity and express appreciation for this beautiful monument to our country.
Mount Rushmore is a beautiful monument even though it was sculpted by Danish-American Gutzon Borglum who was a member of the Ku-Klux Clan and extremely prejudiced!! But, hell lets let bygone’s be bygone’s.
Have had the opportunity to visit on more than one occasion in the past 50 years. The first time out the little visitors shack and the surrounding area was quite different than the elaborate set-up now, yet most recent trip, within the past month, has been as exciting as the first. A trip through the archives downstairs is as enlightening as any can be. To marvel at the equipment and process used to blast those historic faces in granite, and the men who did it, is something to behold. A trip well worth while with many memories. Each time I’ve had the privilege of visiting Rushmore I take numerous pictures, many times they’re duplicates of those previously taken. It’s too bad everyone can’t be fortunate enough to visit Rushmore.
I really appreciate the people who took the time to respond to these pictures by focusing on the pictures. Washington helped our country win its independence, Jefferson put into words why our country wanted its independence, Roosevelt explored the West, saw to the founding of Yellowstone National Park (THE FIRST NATIONAL PARK IN THE WORLD) and gave us the Panama canal, while Lincoln guided our country through the worst unrest our nation had ever known up to that point in the mid-1800s in the form of the Civil War. They were all great men and all stood for the rights of ALL people within the borders of the United States. Stereotyping, name-calling, and general hatred in all forms are not the activities that these great men strove to protect. They worked to assure that all future generations would be prosperous and free. A little more understanding and compassion will do us all good…
Hey Kotoc,
Notice I didn’t utter ONE WORD about CJ’s oratory. Aren’t I a NICE GUY!
Oh, yes, Calvin… you are SUCH a “nice guy”… and in fact, on my death bed, my dying words will be “Calvin Slay is SUCH a nice guy.” LOL!
Kotoc, it is a great feeling to know that there is someone out there that REALLY, REALLY loves me!Though I don’t think YOU will be the last person I remember on MY death bed, THANKS FOR THE MEMORY. LOL
I realize that slaves, Native Americans, and other minority groups were excluded from the “ALL people” I spoke of in that last post, but the message tolerance, compassion, and understanding should not be diminished by the unfortunate ignorance of these otherwise great Americans.
seen the site a few times. pretty cool – but the crazy horse memorial and the story of the polish sculpture that worked tirelssly (and for free) for years is way more inspiring. and as i recall they still rely only on donations. all civilizations build monuments. is it ego aggrandizement? i suppose so – but what the heck we are mostly run by our ego. just please don’t sell advertisement space under each figure (sponsored by “monsanto” LOLOL)
Although it is a very noble undertaking, having grown up in those Black Hills, I can assure you the the Korczak Ziolkowski family hardly undertook this project for free.
great look n great america
What a great feat of dangling artists! Those old pix are truly showing the daring & chance taking from each guy involved with the project.
We cruised through the area & included Mt.Rushmore & all its glory in our 1932 Ford roadster Street rod in 1994 heading East to a National car event in Louisville,Ky.
After spending the afternoon enjoying all the exhibits & tours, we particurly enjoyed the night time lighted event that was truly a sight to behold, & will never forget.
Thanks for posting these great historical pix!!
As a native-american I believe the desecration of our sacred black hills with the faces of chiefs of the white eyes is an abomination. Lincoln and Roosevelt were both racists who disrespected aboriginal peoples, with Roosevelt even referring to flipinos as “island-negroes”, and Lincoln advocating the return of the freed buffalo people to africa. In reparations to the damage to our hills, native americans demand sculpted faces of sitting bull, geronimo, chief joseph, crazy horse, two-dogs, and other native american leaders, be carved on the face of the north rim of the grand canyon
When I was at Rushmore a number of years ago, a massive sculpture of Crazy Horse was a work in progress on a site about 25 miles away. I am not sure if it was finished….I must check on that.
And yes, he was on a horse.
Wow!…it appears to me that many of you folks need to get a life!…must be a slow day…If all you can do is bash one another over personal opinions you may want to check out the volunteer opportunities in your home town. Positivity can be a wonderful thing if you only let go of the negativity that has apparently consumed you. Have a nice day, God Bless America, (what ever God you choose to embrace), and thank you to those who provided a great source of national pride.
Three great presidents, Roosevelt was a socialist.
Don’t get me started on Obama or Muslims!!!! This is one of the most beautiful sculptures in our History. Please leave it at that!
I have been to Mount Rushmore 3 times, and am in awe each and every time! Can’t we just all agree that it is a beautiful, and very well constructed sculpture? Why does anyone have to get off subjects and talk about things that have NOTHING to do with this wonder of our nation. I am proud to be an american, and I will continue to go to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, or any other National Monument, or Park! Come on people, LET IT GO!!!!
I heard they were working on hauling a giant boulder of coal there to chisel a monument of O’Bammer. Is that true?
Just be careful who you create a monument to…
Many wish few deserve !
a friend of mine who lives in (Mesa ) Arizona suggested i visit this site, ive viewed it and i am very impressed with the subject, i will have to email him, and thank him for the invite.
As an AMERICAN: The Monument is a truly great gift to Humanity….lasting into future Milleniums
As both a 2D and 3D artist I marvel at the God-given inspiration, the dedication and the absolute sculptural skill it took to realize this gift to World Posterity. I know how difficult it is to work life-size and come up with a likeness. How you can do it on a mountain scale is beyond belief!
And on the prejudiced, misleading, political comments in much earlier replies. TRUTH: the FDR’s New Deal myth was a failure. I was there. It was WWII…and I was part of that too(ETO)that brought back employment. It was Eisenhower (party?) who, inspired by Nazi Autobahns, gave us the Interstates which truly enhanced national prosperity.
friend of mine in Arizona introduced me to this monument, its great, hope it lsts for ever
My 1st visit to this marvelous place was in 1946, I have been back over 30 times since.
I love the Black Hills. The vibes there keep drawing me back. Also Devils Tower not far
from the Black Hills. Everytime I go to Rushmore,it makes the hair on my arms stand up’
Truly awe inspiring to see. I’ve been to Crazy Horse a few times,but it never seems to
progress and I wonder if it will ever be done? If you ever have the chance to go to
Rushmore,you’ll be glad you went’
Technically speaking Jefferson bought France’s claim to the Louisiana Territory. The land still belonged to the Native Americans at that time.
This is truly a beautiful and wonderful monument for all Americans. Thanks for all the loving remarks. However, shame on any of you who wrote the trash about someone defacing the monument.
As this was being bult I saw this in the Weekly Reader in grade school. These photos are amazing.
I believe the individual who thinks Roosevelt does not deserve to be on Mt. Rushmore must have him mixed up with FDR. He was the one who started us on the path to socialism. Theodore Roosevelt helped to make us a great and revered nation–something Obama can’t fall over himself fast enough to destroy.
Amen! It was the commie FDR. Sad!
I wholeheartedly agree with what Dotty says… Our nation’s economy is deteriorating faster than most people (mostly Obama supporters) will admit to seeing happen right before our eyes, every single day. It just keeps getting worse and worse, mostly due to this blasted Obamacare. My own son’s job hours have been cut back because of this, and it’s ruining his life and ability to support himself. Tell me, who thinks this is good for the economy when people end up losing their jobs because of “necessary cutbacks?” I’m so furious, I could tear my hair out! What will be Obama’s next way to destroy what America has always held most honorable… putting HIS face on Mt. Rushmore? My daughter has also been unable to find a job in El Paso, TX. Hmmm… let me think. Perhaps it’s because she doesn’t speak Spanish and all the illegal immigrants taking the jobs make it impossible for her? Thanks to you, President Obama. You have made your mark in America’s history for being our downfall… which is what you set out to accomplish right from the very start.
Another case in point: How does everyone feel about this cute little “government shutdown?”
Kotoc, Please give me a break !
Allow me to quote you. “My daughter has also been unable to find a job in El Paso,TX. Hmmm…let me think. Perhaps it’s because she doesn’t speak spanish and all the illegal immigrants taking the jobs make it impossible for her.”
THAT SURE SOUNDS RACIST TO ME!
So, let me try a theory here. Judging from your rhetoric, I will assume you are not Hispanic.
Just for the sake of letting my mind wander, lets assume you are caucasian. Can we also theorize that these spanish speaking people are of mexican descent! OK, now lets assume that the job holders went into these unknown establishments and brandished guns from their persons and demanded that these employers hire them immediately. Before you get all flustered, read back your statement in the first paragraph. Allow me to quote…”ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS TAKING THE JOBS.” Are you suggesting that people holding the jobs were NOT hired by someone in authority in that establishment?
These people were HIRED. They didn’t TAKE anything from your daughter. Secondly, can we assume that these people are being paid a fair wage. Maybe they were hired because they were offered
(lets use the word, GIVEN) a lower wage than your daughter would accept,which is done in lots of cases. Many of these immigrants are over-worked for a mere pittance. It’s shameful !
Remember KATRINA……Many contractors petitioned our government to allow them to bring in workers from South American areas to assist in the cleanup from KATRINA. The SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER went to court to assist many of these workers in recovering MILLIONS of dollars that had not been paid to the workers for their labor. So, maybe this is the case with your daughter. Cheaper labor and cheating them also. If they are illegal, do you think they are going to complain ? …To whom ? In most areas, it is illegal to hire undocumented workers. It seems you are blaming President Obama. If you check the record, we are gaining ground on recovery. We are lots further ahead than when President Bush left office. You speak not knowing of what you speak! Do some research!
My comment on the SHUTDOWN will be brief…Think about this. We are NOT paying our bills (YET) because the DUMBASS republicans don’t want to pay on accounts ALLREADY conceded. To put it simply, the goods we owe on, have been approved for payment earlier. Their stance is, before they pay the bills, the President has to make cuts in the Health care bill. THE HEALTH CARE BILL HAS ALLREADY BEEN PASSED AND APPROVED EVEN AFTER GOING TO THE SUPREME COURT after being CHALLENGED. MY position is,I am more than happy to see people with health care who could not previously afford or receive it. NOW,even with a previous ailment,you are able to get coverage. At least this way, we are able to recover some of the millions we were spending ( paying) for indigents who ONLY had access to state owned care The premiums are based on income. Older citizens are paying less snd younger people are paying more. You are also free to find your own health care. New York and Los Angeles are noticing a lower cost in health care. ( do your research )”Love thy neighbor as thyself”
I relinquish my soapbox!
I saved the article to muse over it again. The old adage, ” biting the hand that feeds you came to mind. The haters do not realize that the president we are so privileged to have at this particular time is trying so hard to help the working man. Why is it that it is always the poor fighting the poor. Big money interests are trying their damndest to prevent this man from providing the working man with something to hold onto.THEY CAN’t SEE IT. The rich and big industry are determined to control congress and the country. The haters are falling in line with exactly what the rich and industry want. “Keep the people out of our pockets.” The politicians are so afraid NOT to follow these money vultures. They (politicians ) know that there are many waiting out in the wings to take their places if they don’t fall in line and oppose whatever it is that they demand of them. President Obama is their target because he is interested in helping the working man. He is constantly telling us that people should be given a better working wage. He wants to raise the minimum working wage. Doesn’t that tell you something. He has also mentioned that he wants to repair the infrastructure and wants to do it with union labor. ( which guaratees a living wage )
Why is it so hard to understand this!
Do you think ROMNEY wanted the public to know that he said that a certain part of the country didn’t matter to him ? I often remember Dick Schaffan ( sp) who said he meets with his senatot and congressman frequently I wonder if he really thinks that they give a damn about him. NO! Oh yeah, they will butter you up and serve you for breakfast before they laugh in your face and eat you for breakfast. You don’t get financing if you don’t follow orders and they know it. It is about time we all figured out that we as citizens have lost this country to the politicians and big Industry and WE WILL NEVER GET IT BACK! We took off the leash and we can’t get them to sit without it. So, resign yourselves to the fact that we are all puppets and we dance to the music. One day when it’s too late those who think we are a free nation will wake up and smell the coffee. A friend and I were discussing the right to bear arms. He stated, ” well, we can protect ourselves from the government.” I laughed in his face and stated, the government can take you out 1000.00 miles away. All you have is a rifle! Shows you how people think. I know that I might as well be talking to a blank wall. because nobody listens when you make sense. This president is trying to help the working man. His aim is to reestablish the middle class. (I didn’t take the time to critic this piece. So, please forgive any mistates.)
Do you understand what raising the minimum working wage will do to small business owners?
Lindylu,The minimum wage law applies to businesses that employ more than a set number of employees. It does not apply to every employer in this country. Of course I know what that means to the smaller businesses. You have to employ a certain amount of people before it is mandatory.
Glad to know someone is listening ! LOL
Okay now see I didn’t know that. I thought minimum wage raises was for everyone. That makes sense and that’s the way it should be. Then I’m all for it!!
Thanks for the info. Sometimes I am not as informed as I should be before opening my mouth.:)
When you get in your sixties then you’ll realize what F.D.R., L.B.J. and The Bammer, who is the spawn of beastiality, has done to you and our once great country, sadly. Glad I won’t be around to witness too much more of it.
Kotoc, you use to make a little sense to me. But, here lately, it seems you are going
over the edge. I’m wondering if it is because you probably have the notion that your son and daughter are coming back home(if they ever left) to depend on you for their survival. I remember during the year 1969, my company had a layoff. I got VERY BUSY looking for another job. Believe it or not, I found one that was much more lucrative. Better pay, better vacations and better time off with my family.I never blamed anyone for my misfortune (if you can call it that).My life was a “bowl of cherries” after that layoff. I NEVER looked back. I saved my money and retired at 56 years of age. Am now, 76 years old.
My point is, why is there always someone to blame other than yourself. It makes it a bit easier to accept doesn’t it. You blame President Obama for your kids shortcoming of being unemployed or having hours of work cutback. The cutbacks you speak of are because of Congress, not the President.THE PRESIDENT SUGGESTS, CONGRESS APPROVES! Did you prepare them to maybe possess more than one way of making a living? Was there any college preparation? Were there any vocation variations?
So, don’t go around ‘PULLING OUT YOUR HAIR.” Tell you what might work though. Try STANDING NAKED IN FRONT OF THE CONGRETIONAL BUILDING AND SETTING YOURSELF AFIRE.That always makes the evening news.
Guarantee you won’t have to PULL your hair out!
My fathers mentally was, ” A man should have at least three things that he can do well.” He was right! We are not in the bygone days when a high school diploma would get you a job for life with a living wage.Don’t know how old you are but, I remember that my mother did not work. My father was the only breadwinner. Now, it takes mom and dad to help with survival of a family. My father was a journeyman carpenter and was adept at automobile mechanics. Also dabled at plumbing.
Calvin Slay, you are now 76 years old you say? Please let me remind you that “back in the day,” there wasn’t a requirement for being bilingual when applying for a job along the U.S./Mexico border states unless you had a trade that didn’t involve interaction with the public. And NEITHER of my two kids have “shortcomings” you insulting, insignificant fool! My son went to a technical college and my daughter went to a trade school. (We arent’ rich enough to afford a Harvard University tuition for either of our kids.) I know I told you that you weren’t worth my time and effort to read your stupid comments anymore, but this time I just couldn’t help myself. At every turn, you seem intent to display your glaring ignorance and annoy people. You must really get off on making people not like you.
This time, it’s goodbye FOREVER! … You really and truly are NOT worth my time and further annoyance anymore, and I will never let myself get aggravated by you… I intend to IGNORE you from now on!
(Also, it’s “DABBLED,” not “dabled.”)
CIAO!
Maybe the reason you don’t have money for their tuition is because to have to send so much to D.C. so they can furnish cell phones to the hoodies and street hos?
I suppose that’s one of the reasons, Mark. A lot of our taxes also go toward Social Security payments that our senior citizens (legal U.S. citizens, that is) have to fight tooth and nail for, even though they were the ones paying into it all their lives, and instead the Social Security money is being doled out to illegals in return for their Democratic votes. That’s pretty much the way it works now, no matter WHAT Calvin Slay will try to convince you to believe. I hear about things like this all the time in the news.
I’ve been on S.S. for over ten years and will never get all my money back from that Ponzi scheme FDR shoved down our throats. He was a commie from Hell like LBJ, Jimmy Carter and our Bammer.
DOTTY,where do you think we would be if he had not created the W.P.A. and other government projects.
It helped to bring us out of the depression.
We need all those work organizations back and build more roadside parks, dams, replant trees, everything to make better. They’d all enjoy working 12 or 14 hours a day out in the sun instead of laying around in the Detroit and Chicago ghettos making illegitimate babies. Right?!
AMEN, Mark! You’re a man who knows what’s RIGHT about how to stop the spreading of our hard-earned tax dollars to people that refuse to work for it! And I’m not talking about people who are old or disabled, I’m talking about people who know how to manipulate our system to get free stuff, and then laugh about how STUPID we are for letting them get away with it. Burning our national flag, demanding more and more…. I’m so sick of it, I could scream!
And it’s getting worse by the day. BRING back the WPA and the others. Make it where you have to work to eat. Nothing teaches you faster than cold and hunger. Been there, learned that.
Mark, you are taking the words right out of my mouth. I have been preaching this for days and months on end. Go over some of the remarks previously sent in by me. If you have been keeping up with the news, THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT THE PRESIDENT HAS BEEN TRYING TO CONVINCE CONGRESS. Still you and KOTOC blame him for sitting on his fingers. IT TAKES MONEY TO MAKE MONEY! Kotoc I am quoting you about “HOW TO STOP THE SPENDING OUR HARD EARNED TAX DOLLARS TO PEOPLE THAT REFUSE TO WORK FOR IT AND I AM NOT TALKING ABOUT PEOPLE WHO ARE OLD AND DISABLED I AM TALKING ABOUT PEOPLE WHO KNOW HOW TO MANIPULATE OUR SYSTEM TO GET FREE STUFF……..” Kotoc, can you think of anyone who knows more about manipulating the system that the ones who built it. CONGRESS!!!…….
Have you guys ever given thought to how much money we GIVE to BIG
Sorry, my machine gliched on me befor finishing,
As I was saying,have you guys ever thought about how much money we give to BIG BUSINESS. Millions to the OIL companies, Millions to the Farmers ( corporate) and Millions to Drug Companies.All you two can see is that little guy or woman who happens to get away with stealing from the welfare.You’re watching the WRONG PEOPLE. That is exactly how these higher ups control you. KEEP THEIR MINDS ON THE POOR STEALING AND WE CAN STEAL ALL WE WANT.(POOR FIGHTING THE POOR) It works every time.Congress is ripping you off. Who do you think yhey are listening to, the people who elected them or the people who PAID FOR their election.Are you allowed to do inside trading,,NO!Can a normal citizen like Martha Stewart do inside trading? NO! She went to prison for it. But your congressman can and they come out of it RICH. Who set the law, CONGRESS did. Can you go on a job and serve ONE term and get a pension for the rest of your life. NO ! Congress can.they made the rule. KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE ! I repeat, you’re watching the wrong people ! Farmers (corporate) can allow farmland to set without farming it for various amounts of time,( soil Bank) they get paid MILLIONS for idle land.Congress set the rule. Is this not the same as someone NOT WORKING. It is CORPORATE WELFARE. ALL OF THE ABOVE. you have been brainwashed! Can’t keep your mind off your neighbor. Poor watching the poor. All you can see is that little guy stealing from you because that is the way The Big Shots planned it ! It WORKS !
Calvin, here Is a quote from you, dated back in August… remember this?…
“Mark Crider,
You are a despicable (whatever you are) specimen. Not one person in this setting EVER put him or herself in a position of COMPLETE stupidity and hate as you have. I know you well. I’ve seen you throughout my entire life. You don’t crawl from under rocks. You crawl from slime. Murky, stinking slime. Do us all a favor and crawl back ,low life.”
I remember.
When saying to Mark that he took the words right out of my mouth. I was referring to the statement about rebuilding the infrastructure ONLY ! I also saw the statement about illegitimate babies, on which I chose NOT to comment. I assumed he crawled out of the slime for a moment. But, I was wrong.
Kotoc,I STILL LOVE YA……….Just don’t correct me on my spelling again……LOL
Hope we’re still friends. Disagreements should not make enemies.
I do sometimes step out of line. Forgive me and write to me again.
When you’re my age you become BS Proof. 🙂
Mark, without getting into s
Into s? S?
I enjoyed the photos of Mt Rushmore. It is a beautiful work of art. However, after reading ALL the comments, I didn’t receive any enjoyment from reading Calvin Slays rants. Time will tell what impact our current President will play in the future of our country, right now it’s not looking too promising. Cal appears to attempt to pick fights with anyone and everyone he doesn’t agree with. Are you unable to locate the proper forum for your rantings and ravings, CS? I’m sure you will correct any spelling/grammar errors I may have made. That above all else speaks volumes about your character and condescending attitude towards others.
My Husband is from South Dakota. So when we got married in 1972 we took a trip to S.D. so I could meet his parents. I also had a cousin that lived near by in Huron, S.D. After we visited both of them we went to Mount Rushmore. That was the most wonderful thing I have ever seen. It just made my heart swell to what grand work our country is capable of. I’m so sad to see what our great country has come to. Our forefathers would start another revolution if they were here now. Mount Rushmore is what this country stands for but sorry to say not any more. May GOD bless our once great country and give us the power to make her great once again! May GOD help us all.
Jean
I look at the men who walked on the faces and hammered out of stone these 4 wonderful presidents. And I think of the children of today who are being raised as soft whimps and are and will be afraid to lose so they don’t step out in faith of hoping to succeed in something. Take all those so-called educators and these same children and have them spend just one days at the beautiful Mt. Rushmore National Memorial. They will be better for it.
I was so happy to get the email w/ pics of Mt. Rushmore, because I have never been there and it’s highly doubtful I will ever go.
That said, I scrolled (unfortunately) down a little bit and became so utterly sad at the amount of hate and racism that still exists in this wonderful country of ours. Including of our President, who whether you voted for him or not IS our President and should be given some respect for that. And, elected TWICE I might add BY the majority of people in this country!
I didn’t spend a lot of time reading because I just saw the same old prejudices. Mexicans, blacks, muslims, etc. Ignorance is alive and well and it makes me cry at how abusive people can be to other human beings! :’-(
Teddy Roosevelt was a “Trust Buster”. He saw to it that large corporations couldn’t have monopolies! We could sure use him today! No one has the guts to stand up to large corporations who are dictating this country’s agenda!
Montana P, I LIKE YOU!
You and I are the only persons that seem to know what is going on in this country.
Can you believe what some of these people are saying about our President when it is
the congress and BIG BUSINESS that make it hard for the citizens.Since I am NOT making an impact, maybe you can put some sense into their noggings. LOL Thery don’t believe me. They are calling him a Socialist, commie, and all sorts of names unbecoming a president of the U.S.A.
We are being led to slaughter by these congressional people. In the name of PATROTISM,the people are believing anything they hear from their congressmen and women. Have you read some of the letters. Some out there actually believe that the people elected are actually out there to serve them . LOL Congressmen and women are interested in being reelected. If you don’t abide by the rules set by big business and the powerful in congress, you do not get enough money to WIN the NEXT ELECTION. That is what is holding up the works NOW. “Do as you are told or you will not get enough money to run against the possible new comer.” We have given them AMERICA and we will NEVER get it back! It is just like illegal drugs. There is too much money in it to ever get rid of it !
It never fails to amaze me that no matter what the purpose of a website (in this case to display some pretty awesome pictures of Mount Rushmore) someone will take the opportunity to cram their opinions on every unrelated subject known to man down everyone else’s throats. Lighten up people and simply enjoy the photographs in the manner in which they were intended!!!!!
Gives you a GOOD feeling!
WTF! I can not believe how such an incredibly beautiful display turned into for the most part an ugly, political and racist rants. This work of art instills American pride as it displays the very best of our determination and ingenuity. I wish these sites would just stop opening up to comments it only invites irrelevant comment by those who will take advantage of any venue where they can remain faceless. COWARDS!
Larski, The situation in this country is very serious.We need people to stand up and shout out the truth.Regardless of the podium. Churches, street corners, bars, schools and and even sights like this one. Too many have stood by and let the politicians and Big Business take us to the dogs. “WE THE PEOPLE……” is just a figure of speech. I am but one. However, if others can see what has happened to us and we join forces, maybe we can help to turn it around. I just don’t understand how citizens can call the President of this country some of the names we have seen in this sight. That in itself is a good sign of where we are as a country. This man is trying to help us regain some of the power we had as citizens by bringing back the middle class. But, because he is trying to help us, ( the working poor) he is being heaped upon with hatred and disdain. I speak out because what I am trying to do is, wake people up to the fact that we are at a period in America where we are not
being used as fodder for the POLITICIANS AND BIG BUSINESS. Take a look at all the corporate welfare we pay these people. Has anyone dared to seek out the truth of howmuch we ACTUALLY GIVE these corporations. For What? Only because Congress deemed it so. Lobbyists for the rich and powerful control our way of life through our elected officials. Have ANY of you EVER checked out, how many congressmen have become lobbyists for big Corporations after leaving congress.How do you think they accomplish that? (GOOD OL’boy club) Take the time to look up how much we give these oil companies, corporate farmers and other corporations annually. Many paragraphs back, individuals are talking about people who don’t want to work. Check it out and see where your tax dollars really go.These individuals don’t know because they NEVER check anything out. They take the words of the news media where you see that woman on your t.v. (always black) standing at the welfare counter. It’s always the same one. It’s the politicians way of keeping that image in your mind and keeping your mind OFF of them and the way they are stealing from us and allowing Corporate America to steal from us. As stated previously……( YOU’RE WATCHING THE WRONG PEOPLE) “IF YOU LIE WITH DOGS, YOU WILL RISE WITH FLEAS.”
Calvin — You are such a windbag — Take a breath — No one cares what you think —
Think back to several years ago, Fisher.
Rewmember when we as taxpayers were getting deductions like,TAXES on ANYTHING YOU BOUGHT,interests on ALL CREDIT CARD PURCHASES and all TAXES ON GASOLINE PURCHASES. Congress changed all of that.
But, look at what they have AWARDED themselves over those several years.(if you are aware)
Supposedly, they work FOR us. No,I’m NOT a windbag. I am just PISSED OFF with the way we are being manipulated by these lobbyists, congress and big business.
God Bless Dear USA, What A Great Country and Bless it In Future With Great Leaders!
From India With Love!
No politics for me. As I am sending this from old Blighty, I shouldn’t really comment, but is just the same over here. Perhaps we should have done you a favour and finished it off for you when we sent the gun boats in to burn down the White House!!!!!! –
Back to the point- Thanks to my American cousin for sending these wonderful photos!!
They are AMAZING- and “North By North West” will never be the same again.
@Eyetoons:
Wrong Roosevelt. It was Franklin D that was the bad guy. Theodore was a different man.
[…] See more of these incredible images at: Carved by Dynamite […]
I is hard to believe that so much space is taken up in the comments section by a bunch of whiners.
This is a comment section about a great group of pictures included with superb history and best pictures I have seen yet. What a tribute! This site is NOT all about these so-called experts. It is about one of the seven wonders of the world. I cannot understand why the editors would allow this site to be trivialized. All this shows is how vastly and inappropiately our nation is divided.
ALAS!
Hope this is of interest to someone.
“Sculptors have a term for the artist’s ability to look at a rough piece of stone and see it in it’s final, perfected form. It is called “hyperseeing.” Gutzon Borglun (1867-1941)is the sculptor who created many well-known public works of art. Probably the most famous is Mt. Rushmore National memorial in South Dakota
Borglum’s housekeeper captured the concept of hyperseeing when she gazed up at the massive faces of the four U.S.Presidents on Mt. Rushmore for the first time. “Mr Borglum,” she gasped,” how did you know Mr. Lincoln was in that rock.”
“The worst illiterate is the political illiterate. He hears nothing, sees nothing, takes no part in polical life. He doesn’t seem to know that the cost of living, the price of beans,of flour, of rent, of medicines, all depend on political decisions. He even prides himself on his political ignorance, sticks out his chest and says he hates politics. He doesn’t know, the imbicile,that from his polical non-participation comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and worst of all, corrupt officials, the lackey of exploitives multinational corporations.”
Bertolt Brecht
Mr. Slay:
Mr. Brecht was an avowed Marxist and we saw how well that worked out for the Soviet Union and East Germany.
Mr Schaffan, thank you regarding your reply to my quote of Mr, Brecht. I am quite aware of his marxist views. Still it doesn’t mean that the words written here are lies. I have lived my entire life under Governments, local and federal that treated me as if I were some kind of being from outer space.
So, because you were privileged and didn’t have to experience inequalities,apartheid and other social denials don’t expact me to look at life’s experiences as you do. They were totally different. So don’t judge me until you have walked in my moccasins. Did you actually read the quotation? I see nothing that speaks of socialism. Actually, those words seem to me to be exactly what I and other Americans seem to think. (non involvement by the citizenry) Otherwise, how would the Politicians and Corporations control us as they do. We have allowed them to control our lives, while they suck our blood, GET and KEEP everything for themselves and give us NOTHING in return.
Oh, don’t think for one minute that they don’t think we’re unhappy. When you don’t compliain,you’re happy.
Suggest the politics rants better suited to Reagan Reports (Michael Reagan runs the webpage) or Washington Times websites not this forum. I am a political person myself and could counter argue or support your positions but not here boys take it outside.
Love the pictorial history of Mount Rushmore. Now I really want to see it. A marvel in its own right and it has brought back many fold the money spent to make it. My father worked in a similar CCC camp job doing work during the depression years. No fatalities is an amazing fact in its own right not many projects of this magnitude can claim such a safety record. Too bad it was not finished completely as envisioned. A jewel for South Dakota to be sure. The sculptor and his son, their descendants should be very proud.
These men earned the place in our American history as a reminder who we are now and at the beginning.
@Calvin Slay,
I would like to suggest that KitKat55 has a very valid point, in that political rants SHOULD be taken to some other web site pertaining to each subject. That’s the reason I chose to stop responding to you awhile back.
I’m still following the various newsletters and photos of Love These Pics… and enjoy ALL of them. Let’s just put our political differences of opinion aside here. They only anger other people.
I don’t understand why no one has ever cleaned up the mess of rock debris Located below the sculpture? Wouldn’t it look nicer if the remaining pile of rocks were removed to allow trees to grow again?
I don’t understand why no one has ever cleaned up the mess of rock debris Located below the sculpture? Wouldn’t it look nicer if the remaining pile of rocks were removed to allow trees to grow again? The pile ruins the experience of being there in person.
APATHY IS GOING TO BE THE DEATH OF US AND THIS COUNTRY !
GET OFF YOUR ASSES AND GET INVOLVED BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE.
Pictures and story of the effort are awesome. Some of the comments not so much. You couldn’t just comment on Mt. Rushmore and had to run pages of the negative garbage. Please take a minute to look at what someone created for our Country and leave the politics out of it. Thank you for showing a little respect for this effort.
Great photos! Thanks for sharing!
Just fantastic would like for it to last forever.