I went to the Crazy Horse Memorial a few years back with my family and I was intrigued by what was being done there. Not only is it a place for tourists to come and see the monument but, it is also a museum and the Indian University of North America.

Crazy Horse was a war leaders of the Oglala Lakota who took up arms against the U.S. Federal Government to stop encroachment on Lakota land. He is most famous for his part in the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

The construction of this monument began in 1948 and was commissioned by Henry Standing Bear a Lakota chief. Once finished, this monument will be the largest sculpture in the world. This whole place is used by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal to learn about Aboriginal history and their culture. While I was there we watched an informational movie about the history of the monument; how the idea began, who supported it and the artist who began the project. I found it very eye opening. As you travel through the museum, you get to see beautifully painted tepees, and many many different types of artifacts. There is also a Native American Education and Cultural Center where you can learn to do Aboriginal crafts such as making medicine pouches, learn to play the flute or learn an Aboriginal dance. While I was there, I watched some powwow dancers in full regalia dance. I was so impressed. They were dressed so beautifully, and flowed to the music like they were part of it. I still have the video on my camera. I just do not have the heart to erase it.

The Crazy Horse Monument is a symbol of the strength of the North American Aboriginal people. They stand strong through adversity just like the rock the monument is carved from. The Crazy Horse Monument is an impressive tool Aboriginals are using to help pass their knowledge onto the next generation.

Quick note: The Crazy Horse Monument is completely funded by donations; no government funding has ever been accepted; impressive right??

References

Welcome to Crazy Horse Memorial. (n.d.). Crazy Horse Memorial. Retrieved November 10, 2013

Photo via geolocation.ws