Gold Panning Demonstrations

Lt. Colonel George A. Custer entered the Black Hills during the summer season of 1874. His military expedition was in search of a suitable site for a frontier post within the Dakota Territory. However, he was also instructed to map the region and take an inventory of its natural resources – including mineral resources, such as gold. His expedition did find gold in French Creek, between present-day Custer State Park and the city of Custer. This discovery created a fever that swept across a growing nation, suffering from hard economic times.

Shortly after Custer departed from the Black Hills, an onslaught of gold seekers entered the region. Raping the land and creating cultural conflicts with native people, thousands of European settlers played an intricate role in the progression and desecration of American history. Perhaps a way of life in the late 1800s, the Gold Rush forever changed the natural and cultural landscape of western South Dakota.

Well over 125 years later, gold fever continues to strike visitors, and you too can be a part of the legacy. Gold panning demonstrations are offered daily at 1:00 p.m. during the summer season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Interested participants need to meet at the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center and be prepared for an adventure into some hands-on history. With gold pans available, participants will step back in time and try their luck at finding some "yellow ore" in a mountain stream.

NOTE: Participants should dress for a wet programming experience. Old shoes, sandals, and shorts are highly recommended.