The Majestic Crazy Horse Memorial

• HelloHau
  [how]
• GoodbyeWopila
  [woh-pee-lah]
• YesHeh
  [heh]
• NoHaŋ
  [hahn]
• Please/You're welcomeAŋpetu waste
  [ahn-pay-due wah-stay]
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  [pee-lah-mah-yah]
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  [skah]
• How are you?Hečhašte kiŋ
  [heh-chah-shtay keen]
• Fine. And you?Wóiŋičeya. Níŋ kiŋ
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  [wee-yah-yay-lah keen english]
• I don't understandWíyayel kiŋ hokšiče
  [wee-yah-yayl keen hohk-shee-chay]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenuža iyéčhekša, hokšíla
  [meh-noo-zah ee-ye-chay-kshah, hohk-shee-lah]
• I don't eat meatWasu maǧiŋ
  [wah-shoo mah-gheeng]
• Cheers!Sko!
  [skoh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseWašté waste, hokšíla
  [wah-shday wah-stay, hohk-shee-lah]

• Help!Aŋpetu kiŋ
  [ahn-pay-due keen]
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  [neeng-yahng keen]
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  [wee-chah-shah wee-chah keen]
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  [wee-chah-shah woh-shah-kee-chi keen]
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  [ee-chay-yah-pee hay ee-yuh-hahn-pee]
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• How much is it?Taku ke kte?
  [dah-koo kay ktay]
• That's too expensiveTaku skaníyela
  [dah-koo skah-nee-ye-lah]
• Can you lower the price?Kuŋ yuhaŋpi kiŋ iyuhaŋpi?
  [koon yuh-hahn-pee keen ee-yuh-hahn-pee]

• What time is it?Taku kiŋ éya?
  [dah-koo keen ay-yah]
• It's one o'clockHupéčhuŋ
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• 1Hoká
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• 4Tȟáŋka
  [thahn-kah]
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  [zahp-thahn]
• 6Šákpe
  [shah-kpeh]
• 7Šápta
  [shahp-dah]
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  [oh-glah-lah]
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• 10Wíyaka
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• Where's a/the...?He (wí) híčhetu?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Kuŋ iyuhaŋpi kiŋ (wíčha)?
  [koon ee-yuh-hahn-pee keen (wee-chah)]
• When's the next (bus)?He éya waíyakta (bus)?
  [hay ay-yah wah-ee-yah-kdah (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Iyuhaŋpi (ki ....)
  [ee-yuh-hahn-pee (kee)]

The Crazy Horse Memorial was conceived by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski in response to a request from Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear. Ziolkowski, who had previously worked on Mount Rushmore, began the project in 1948. Chief Standing Bear's desire was to create a monumental tribute to the Native American warrior, Crazy Horse, to honor and preserve Native American heritage. Ziolkowski dedicated the rest of his life to this monumental task, forging a legacy that continues to be built upon by his family to this day.

Crazy Horse was a revered Lakota warrior born around 1840. He led his people in the resistance against the U.S. government's encroachment on Native American lands. Known for his bravery and tactical prowess, Crazy Horse played a crucial role in the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. His leadership and dedication to preserving his people's way of life made him a symbol of Native American resilience and pride. The memorial aims to honor his legacy and educate the public about his contributions.

The carving of Crazy Horse Memorial is an ongoing, multi-generational project. Korczak Ziolkowski began the work in 1948 with the use of dynamite and other heavy machinery. The face of Crazy Horse was completed and unveiled in 1998, marking a significant milestone. The monument, when finished, is intended to depict Crazy Horse riding a horse and pointing into the distance. The project is funded entirely through private donations and visitor fees, eschewing government funding to maintain independence and authenticity.

Beyond the sculpture itself, Crazy Horse Memorial encompasses a broader mission of cultural preservation and education. The Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational and Cultural Center at the site aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of Native American history and culture. These institutions offer exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that enrich visitors' knowledge and appreciation of Native American heritage. The memorial serves as a living tribute to the enduring spirit and rich traditions of Native American peoples.

Crazy Horse Memorial hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate Native American culture and community. The annual Volksmarch, held in June, allows visitors to hike to the top of the monument, offering a unique perspective of the work in progress. The Native American Day celebration in October includes traditional dance, music, and storytelling, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and Native American traditions. These events provide opportunities for cultural exchange and promote an understanding of the ongoing significance of the memorial.

The completion of Crazy Horse Memorial remains a long-term goal, with continuing efforts to realize Korczak Ziolkowski's ambitious vision. The project's future phases include detailed work on the horse's head and Crazy Horse's outstretched arm. The Ziolkowski family, along with dedicated staff and volunteers, continue to work towards this monumental achievement. The memorial stands as a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the enduring importance of honoring Native American heritage for generations to come.

The Crazy Horse Memorial is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, near the town of Custer. The nearest airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), approximately 50 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach the memorial. Alternatively, you can drive to Crazy Horse Memorial from major cities like Denver, Colorado (a 6-hour drive) or Sioux Falls, South Dakota (a 5-hour drive).

While at Crazy Horse Memorial, walking is the primary mode of transportation as you explore the visitor areas, museums, and viewpoints. For those who prefer not to walk, shuttle buses are available to take visitors closer to the mountain carving. If you plan to explore the surrounding Black Hills area, renting a car is highly recommended.

The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at Crazy Horse Memorial, including at the gift shops, restaurants, and ticket booths. There are also ATMs available on-site if you need to withdraw cash.

Crazy Horse Memorial is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any tourist location, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. The nearby town of Custer is also considered safe, but standard precautions should be taken, especially at night. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in parked cars.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The memorial has first aid stations and trained staff to handle minor medical issues. The nearest medical facility is Custer Regional Hospital, located about 5 miles away in the town of Custer. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Don't wear offensive or inappropriate attire, as the site is a place of cultural and historical significance. Religion: Do show respect for the Native American culture and heritage represented at the memorial. Public Transport: Do use the shuttle services if you don't wish to walk long distances. Greetings: Do greet staff and fellow visitors politely. A simple 'hello' or 'good day' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local food available at the on-site restaurant. Don't litter; use the provided trash bins.

To experience Crazy Horse Memorial like a local, attend the cultural events and Native American dance performances frequently held at the memorial. Take the time to visit the Indian Museum of North America on-site for a deeper understanding of the history and culture. If possible, visit during the annual Volksmarch, a popular hike that allows participants to walk up to the base of the mountain carving.