Corn, Wall's and Mountains

The next day saw us on our way through Nebraska and then South Dakota.

Along our journey we saw signs for the World Famous Corn Palace in Mitchell which we had never heard of. Irene was insistent that we make time to see some of these sites as we might not be driving this way again.

I remember having to drive off the highway, and turn left and right and right again following a maze of streets and signs with not one of them telling you how far it was.

Then we saw it...

The Corn Palace in Mitchell, SD

Mitchell's Corn Palace is decorated outside with different colored corn husks in artistic murals. These outside murals are changed every year. Inside are murals of pictures from classic local artists that are changed after so many years.

It was an interesting tourist lure. And we even managed to get our picture taken with Cornelius

Dad found Cornelius inside

Camille snagged a picture when the corny guy ventured outside

There is a famous drug store called Wall's Drug Store that started up in the Depression Era in the town of Wall. Business was not good and the wife of the owner suggested they put up signs on the highway offering free cups of iced water. Now the highway signs captivate travelers not only with water but also other novelties and attractions.

We heard about these signs when reading one of Richard Paul Evans' books in "The Walk" series.

It was great to enjoy the many touristy things to do and visit. We enjoyed a lovely meal at the store.

And of course, we each had a cup of iced cold water. They now serve an estimated 5,000 cups a day.

Then we had to drive along fast for the next 1.5 hours in time to visit Mount Rushmore and the night lighting performance. Irene was excited to show us one of the sites she had seen with her family growing up. We caught some photos just before dusk, watched a short outdoor video presentation about the four presidents depicted by the sculptor, and captured some night photos too.

Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln

Saunderson, Saunderson, Saunderson and Saunderson

I have to learn some things about my camera!

Quite something to finally see this historic memorial.