Day 3, Missouri River Crossing, South Dakota

Leaving Blue Earth, MN, we have just under 450 miles to Badlands National Park in South Dakota. As we traversed Minnesota, aside from super flat, and wide expanses, there was not too much difference in the environment of this area and Ohio. Crossing into South Dakota, we stopped at the visitor center and was able to take a picture with Mount Rushmore. We didn’t really have any interest in visiting the actual monument, but the kids enjoyed getting their picture taken with a small-scale Mount Rushmore.

At visitor centers and rest stops in South Dakota, there are gigantic metal tipis. These are designated as National Historic Places and are designed by Ward Whitwam.

The environment changed drastically when we hit the Missouri River. The Missouri River is the longest river in North America. The Yellowstone River drains into it, and the Missouri dumps into the Mississippi. This was the river that Lewis and Clark traveled, upon Thomas Jefferson’s instructions, to explore the Louisiana Purchase.

When we arrived at the Missouri, there is a rest stop where we stopped. Here, we saw the monument “Dignity of Earth and Sky.” The plaque at the base reads, “Standing at the crossroads, Dignity echoes the interaction of earth, sky, and people. She brings to light the beauty and promise of the Indigenous peoples and cultures that still thrive on this land. My intent is to have the sculpture stand as an enduring symbol of our shared belief that all here are sacred, and in a sacred place.”

The sculpture was designed and constructed in hopes of unifying the people of South Dakota, to give respect to the indigenous people that still live in South Dakota and to get people to think about the beauty of the Native American culture. I really like the words of Susan Claussen Bunger, instructor of Native American social structures, to help me interpret this powerful monument.

“As is evident through history, humans will ultimately disillusion and betray. As is such, I have a new role model who is solid and sturdy. She literally owns a spine of steel and reminds me of the injustice in the world, but also of strength, perseverance and survival. She signifies people who have prevailed through the centuries. She represents all who resist and strive forward. She portrays a rallying cry for those who wish to be heard and valued. She stands strong and proud, meeting the morning sun and bracing against the nighttime cold. She contemplates the world through a poise of conviction and fearlessness. Her name is “Dignity.” (Ref)

State Signs for Day 3