A Biography of a Mountain: Uncovering the Complex History of Mount Rushmore
In the wake of the George Floyd protests and calls for racial justice across the nation, President Donald Trump’s defiant speech at Mount Rushmore on July 4, 2020, highlighted the importance of preserving the monument as a tribute to America’s forefathers and freedom. However, author Matthew Davis saw this moment as an opportunity to delve deeper into the origins of Mount Rushmore and uncover the untold stories that lie beneath its iconic facade.
In his book, “A Biography of a Mountain,” Davis embarks on a two-year journey to the Black Hills of South Dakota to unravel the complex history of the monument. Through conversations with Native people and White settlers in the region, he pieces together a narrative that goes beyond the traditional historical accounts and delves into the personal stories and perspectives of those who have a stake in the land.
One of the key revelations in Davis’ book is the role of Gutzon Borglum, the principal sculptor of Mount Rushmore, who was known for his controversial views and connections to the Ku Klux Klan. Davis uncovers the links between Mount Rushmore and Georgia’s Stone Mountain, shedding light on Borglum’s vision for the monument and its political implications. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks during the construction process, Mount Rushmore was finally completed in 1941, leaving behind a legacy that continues to spark debate and controversy.
Through a blend of memoir, poetry, and fiction, Davis brings to life the diverse voices and stories that make up the tapestry of Mount Rushmore. From the trauma of Native boarding schools to the pride of White settlers, each narrative adds a layer of complexity to the monument’s history and challenges the conventional narratives that surround it.
Among the many stories that Davis uncovers, one that stands out is that of Gerard Baker, the first Native superintendent of Mount Rushmore. Baker’s efforts to center the Native experience in American history and challenge visitors’ expectations highlight the ongoing struggle to reconcile the past with the present at the monument.
As the debate over the future of Mount Rushmore continues to unfold, “A Biography of a Mountain” serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of uncovering the hidden histories that shape our understanding of the world around us. Through Davis’ meticulous research and evocative prose, readers are invited to reexamine their perceptions of Mount Rushmore and consider the untold stories that lie beneath its towering figures. When I first visited the construction site of the Crazy Horse Memorial in 2018, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of unease. The towering monument rising in the Black Hills was envisioned as a counterpoint to Mount Rushmore, featuring the Oglala Lakota leader astride a steed and standing 10 times bigger in scale. As I explored the region to write a book about white supremacy in art and public space, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off.
I had a chance to speak with the chief interpreter at Rushmore, and my pointed questions seemed to strike a chord. She even went as far as to offer me a job, saying that I was just the type of person the memorial needed – Black, curious, and articulate. Learning about Baker’s aims for the Crazy Horse Memorial only confirmed what she had said.
In his book, Davis eloquently defines the Lakota land theft as genocide without imposing his own biases. He lets the stories speak for themselves, leading to uncomfortable truths about the presidents depicted on Mount Rushmore. Davis suggests that perhaps these ideals should not be expressed on this mountain, in this land, and in this way.
As the country prepares to celebrate the 250th year of its founding, the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in our cities raises concerns. Davis concludes his book with a poignant scene from a naturalization ceremony held at Mount Rushmore on Flag Day in 2023. The presiding judge, a White man from South Dakota, acknowledges the Indigenous people of the United States and the struggles they faced. He encourages new citizens to share their culture, wisdom, and talents, recognizing that diversity is the strength of America.
As we reflect on our history and the stories of those who have come before us, it is important to consider the impact of our actions on the land and its people. The lessons learned from the past can guide us in building a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Let us honor the courage of those who have come before us and strive to create a more just society for generations to come.
