
Take a trip into yesteryear!
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Keystone, South Dakota, nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, is a charming & historic town renowned for its proximity to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Keystone welcomes visitors from around the world to marvel at the colossal granite faces of past U.S. presidents etched into the mountainside. Beyond its role as the gateway to Mount Rushmore, Keystone offers a blend of Old West charm with modern amenities. Alongside quaint shops, cozy cafes, you will find the fascinating stories of the struggle and sometime riches of our early settlers. Adventure seekers can explore the nearby Black Hills National Forest, while history enthusiasts can delve into the town's rich Gold Rush past at the Keystone Historical Museum. Whether captivated by its natural beauty or intrigued by its storied past, Keystone captivates visitors with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural splendor. Visit the Keystone Historical Museum to learn about all of the rich history of Keystone and the Black Hills!
Learn about the history of Keystone, The Black Hills, Mt. Rushmore, Gold Mining, Carrie Ingalls & Much More!
Keystone Characters
Learn about Carrie Ingalls and all of the historical figures of Keystone
Keystone School
The old Keystone School building in Keystone, South Dakota, is a striking example of Victorian-era architecture, constructed in 1899 at a cost of $10,000 to accommodate 300 students. This historic structure served as the town’s primary school until 1988, its classrooms filled with the voices of generations learning in the heart of the Black Hills. After the school closed, the building was repurposed as the Keystone Historical Museum, preserving the town’s rich heritage. Today, it houses an impressive collection of early mining tools, historic photographs, rock and mineral displays, and memorabilia related to Carrie Ingalls, a notable resident and sister of Laura Ingalls Wilder. The museum retains original features, including antique school furniture and preserved classrooms, offering visitors a glimpse into Keystone’s educational past and its gold rush history, all within the charming walls of this enduring Victorian landmark.
Little Newspapers on the Prairie: The Frontier Press Career of Carrie Ingalls
Another great feature of the museum is, during weekends in October, when the Schoolhouse morphs into a museum of horrors.
An independent group of professionals and immensely talented amateur actors transform the Schoolhouse into a well-done but extremely scary Halloween celebration of the frightful and the macabre.
If you want to be terrorized in the shadow of the Holy Terror mine, follow the link below for further details.
