On October 4, 1927, the creation of Mount Rushmore began, immortalizing the images of four American presidents in towering monumental relief in the Black Hills of South Dakota. President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered the National Park Service to manage the landmark in 1933, which depicts George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Danish-American sculptor Gutzon Borglum led the effort, which employed about 400 men and women before its completion on October 31, 1941. Borglum’s vision aimed to honor these leaders and preserve their legacy for future generations.
The face of each president on Mount Rushmore was slowly revealed over years of work, with Washington being the first to be unveiled in 1930, followed by Jefferson in 1936, Lincoln in 1937, and Roosevelt in 1939. Washington is celebrated as the Father of His Country for his faith in the new republic during challenging times. Jefferson is praised for his belief that all men are created equal, while Roosevelt is recognized as a leading reformer and environmentalist. Lincoln is remembered for emancipating nearly four million Americans from slavery and guiding the nation through the Civil War.
Despite the historical significance and tribute to American leadership, Mount Rushmore has faced criticism from some individuals in recent years. Critics claim that the monument is offensive, especially to Native Americans, as the land was taken from them when gold was discovered. Former NBA star Jalen Rose expressed his concerns about using the monument’s name, calling for it to be retired in a video tweet. In response to such criticisms, Rep. Dusty Johnson introduced the Mount Rushmore Protection Act to prevent any alteration, destruction, or removal of the memorial.
The process of carving Mount Rushmore from a mountain face of granite and sandstone was ambitious, daring, and dangerous. The use of targeted explosives to remove rock from the mountain was followed by precise drilling to create the final carving surface. Despite the challenging conditions and heights involved in the construction, not a single person lost their life during the 14-year project. Workers utilized techniques like honeycombing and hand facers to smooth the surface of the faces with precision and care.
Gutzon Borglum, the artist behind Mount Rushmore, passed away from a heart attack in March 1941 before seeing his vision fully realized. His son Lincoln Borglum took over the project in its final months and oversaw the completion of the monument. The National Park Service highlights the remarkable achievements and dedication of the workers involved in creating the iconic landmark. Mount Rushmore stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American presidents and their contributions to the nation. The monument serves as a symbol of pride and a reminder of the nation’s history and values for generations to come.
