South Dakota, Custer

 I carry so much love for the Black Hills of South Dakota. The scenery of rolling hills and trees reminds me of areas in Germany like the Odenwald and even some parts of the Black Forest. Then the expansive grassland and the 1500 herd strong of roaming Buffalo in Custer State Park. Follower by the incredible rock formations on the Needles Drive. This area of the state offers something for everyone. From the gorgeous clean lakes that one can canoe on or swim or fish. To the hiking and biking. This is the home of The George S. Mickelson Trail that traverses over 100 glorious miles of the Black Hills of South Dakota. A former rail line, the trail crosses more than 100 railroad bridges and goes through four tunnels. 

Then of course the two big tourist attractions. Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse.

Both are powerful but in their own ways. To me personally Mount Rushmore is a Monument dedicated to 4 Presidents who shaped the US and launched it towards what it is today. The good, the bad and at times of course the ugly. It is history and needs to be learned.

Then my heart of course goes towards Crazy Horse. This project does not feel like a monument to me but like a memorial towards the true Natives of America. Here you will find their culture honored and kept alive. You will feel the pain of the injustice they received and the pain they have and still are suffering from. This one pierces one’s heart and it’s an experience that will haunt me. As one phrase that is dominant: The white man made many promises but only kept one. To take our land and he did.