The project was started in 1948 at the request of Chief Henry Standing Bear who invited sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski to carve a mountain to honor the heritage, tradition and culture of North American Indians. Its namesake, Crazy Horse, was a war leader of the Oglala Lakota Tribe and a prominent leader in the Sioux resistance to white encroachment on the Black Hills. His bravery and skill are greatly admired, and he is revered by the Sioux as one of their greatest leaders.
The visitors' complex surrounding the mountain carving includes the Indian Museum of North America, the Native American Cultural Center, the Sculptor's studio home and workshop, a 40,000 square foot Orientation Center and two theaters. Nightly performances of a multimedia laser-light show spotlight Native American culture using dramatic animations and a stirring musical score.
The Crazy Horse Stampede rodeo is held mid-June on the grounds, and is sanctioned by both the PRCA and Great Plains Indian Rodeo Association. At this same time, the Gift from Mother Earth Art Show highlights the artwork of Native American and Western artists. Also, on the first full weekend in June, the Crazy Horse Volksmarch opens a 10K route to hikers that winds around the base of the mountain and up onto Crazy Horse's outstretched arm.
Korczak's wife Ruth and their family have continued the project working with the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. An entrance fee is required to enter the memorial, which is open year-round. Proceeds fund further development of the colossal mountain carving in progress.
The Crazy Horese Memorial opens at 7 a.m. during the summer months and closes just before the nightly "Legends in Light" laser-light multimedia program, which runs Memorial Day weekend through Native American Day. The "Legends in Light" show starts at dark. Stop at the Orientation Office to receive a free pass for a return visit to see the Light show.
The Crazy Horse Monument is open from 8 a.m. until dark during the winter months.
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