In this episode, host Brian Thacker takes us into the construction zone at Crazy Horse Memorial®, the world's largest mountain carving in progress. There he meets with the creator's grandsons and current stewards of the project. We also hear personal stories from members of the Lakota nation, who share how they're using art as a powerful tool to preserve their culture.
You'll hear from:
- Caleb and Vaughn Ziolkowski of Crazy Horse Memorial®
- Paul LaRoche of the band Brulé
- Joe Pulliam of Seven Council Fires Native Art
You run into people from all over the world here. It’s almost like there’s a spiritual calling. They don’t know quite what it is, but they feel it.
”Featured Locations
Crazy Horse Memorial®
The son of a medicine man, Crazy Horse was a Lakota war leader most famous for his role in the Battle of Little Bighorn, where he led a band of warriors to victory. At the request of Chief Henry Standing Bear, Crazy Horse Memorial® was commissioned to honor the Lakota leader. More than a million people from around the world visit the sculpture each year and learn about Native culture at the on-site museum and educational center.
Custer State Park
Towering granite spires, sparkling mountain waters and lush forests make up Custer State Park, home of the Annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival. A sanctuary for those who cherish nature, tranquility and adventure, the park offers plentiful opportunities to explore its wide-open spaces, from hiking, biking and rock climbing to camping, kayaking and driving the Wildlife Loop Scenic Byway.
Crazy Horse Volksmarch
Want an up-close look at the world’s largest mountain carving in progress? Join the Crazy Horse Volksmarch, a bi-annual trek that follows dirt trails and work roads to the arm of the monument, ending in a dramatic view of Crazy Horse's nine-story-tall face. With around 15,000 participants, the Volksmarch is one of the most popular organized walks in the U.S.
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