The Old West

Establishment of Mining & Neighboring Towns

Black Hills Gold Rush

The Black Hills Gold Rush of the mid-1870s led to the rapid establishment of several mining towns. 

Rapid City

Rapid City, founded in 1876, quickly grew into a central hub due to its strategic location. 

Deadwood

Deadwood, also established in 1876, gained notoriety for its lawlessness and colorful characters, becoming a symbol of the Wild West. 

Lead

Lead, home to the prolific Homestake Mine, saw rapid development as the mine became one of the largest and most productive gold operations in the Western Hemisphere. 

These towns attracted diverse groups of fortune seekers, leading to the rapid development of infrastructure, businesses, and services. The booming mining industry transformed the Black Hills from a sacred Native American territory into a bustling mining region, forever altering its cultural and economic landscape.

Four Mile Old West Town, Custer, SD

Four Mile is a great example of what these and other towns would have been like in the 1880s. Join us at Four Mile and revisit this transformative era, experiencing the bustling life, rich culture, and legendary tales that shaped these iconic settlements.

Four Mile Old West Town

Open Daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Visit Four Mile

 

Located 4 miles west of Custer, SD on HWY 16

11921 U.S. Hwy. 16,
Custer, SD 57730

Old West Town Hours
Open Daily 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Open mid-May thru September

Phone
605-673-3905

Email
Four Mile Old West