City: Custer, SD

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (605) 673-2443

Address: 411 Mount Rushmore Rd.

Description: The exhibits here provide a good overview of early life in the Custer area. Old photographs play a prominent role in telling the story, but you’ll also see George Armstrong Custer’s dress epaulets and antelope rifle. Rocks and minerals, native bird and animal specimens, authentic costumes, Native American artifacts, and exhibits depicting mining, lumbering, farming, and community life round out the displays. Don’t miss the chilling stone jail in the basement, the courtroom on the second floor, or the buildings out back—where Custer County’s only legal hanging took place. Bookstore attendants are ready to answer your questions as you browse among the reading matter. The museum, which is staffed by volunteers, is open from June 1 to Aug 31, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon through Sat and 1 to 9 p.m. Sun. Donations are appreciated.