Deadwood was another one of those interesting little towns. Our first stop was the Mt. Moriah Cemetery that is the final resting place of Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Potato Creek Johnny. While the three famous residents were the draw, it was fascinating to walk the cemetery and see how short life spans were in the late 1800's. Most who died were barely in their 40's. There were several family plots where multiple children died in the same year; most likely due to disease. The Mt Moriah Cemetery provides you with a walking tour guide with your $1 admission. The history of the cemetery is interesting all on its own when you read the walking tour guide.
The shot below was taken on the main street in Deadwood. There are several buildings that are still standing that were around during Wild Bill and Calamity Jane's time. Most of their restaurants/bars are combined with gambling opportunities which did not entice us especially when you walk in and get hit with the smell of stale cigarette smoke.
After lunch in Deadwood, it was off to see Sturgis. The town actually was larger than we expected. We were amazed at how many and how large the bar/entertainment centers are in town. The town truly lives for that one week each year for the motorcycle rally. This year it is being held August 6 - 10. Some of the acts who will appear are KISS, Kenny Chesney, Big and Rich, and Sammy Hagar. Can you imagine the sights and sounds of 500,000+ motorcycles? Everyone in Custer says it is some thing to see.
How many times have you driven someplace to see the familiar McDonald's sign. Look closely because no where does it say McDonalds. We thought it was very interesting.
On our way home, we were gifted with a sighting of the ever elusive elk. They are truly beautiful; especially with the buck's horns all in velvet. We were thrilled to see them.
That pretty much ended our day on a good note.
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