Understand

Welcome to the historically rich town of Deadwood, located in the beautiful state of South Dakota. In 1874, the famous Army commander George Custer led an expedition in search of gold, setting off a chain of events that would shape the town's destiny. Two years later, brothers Charlie and Steve Utter arrived with a wagon train carrying essential supplies, including the colorful additions of prostitutes and cards. This influx of entertainment led to a boom in industries such as booze, gambling parlors, and brothels. During this time, the notorious gunfighter "Wild Bill" Hickok, known for his scouting skills, assisted the Utter brothers in navigating any potential threats. Tragically, in the same year, "Wild Bill" was fatally shot in the head while playing poker at Saloon No. 10. The culprit, "the coward Jack McCall," was captured, but the legal proceedings that followed were far from conventional, involving trials by miners and eventual hanging. One legendary event that unfolded in 1876 was the Horsemeat March, where General Cook led an expedition in pursuit of Sioux natives fleeing from the infamous Battle of Little Big Horn. The expedition faced unforeseen challenges when the Sioux set fire to the grass behind them, leaving both the men and horses without food. Eventually, the desperate men had to resort to shooting their own horses for sustenance. Deadwood faced two major fires in the late 19th century, with the 1879 fire engulfing almost the entire town, including the renowned brothel called the Gem Theater. However, the determined owner, Al Swearengen, rebuilt the Gem even bigger and more extravagant. The town, though losing many residents and their possessions, managed to recover. Swearengen's dominance in the vice industry often brought him into conflict with Sheriff Seth Bullock, a stern and respected lawman. Despite the challenges, Deadwood continued to flourish until the devastating fire of 1894. But this time, Sheriff Seth Bullock and the resilient community rebuilt the town even stronger than before, leaving Swearengen behind. The fascinating history of Deadwood served as inspiration for the popular HBO TV series bearing the same name. The show depicted the struggles of Deadwood evolving from a lawless miners' camp to a thriving community and civilization, showcasing iconic characters such as Sheriff Seth Bullock and Al Swearengen. Notably, the series even includes the incredible story of a man who miraculously survived being shot in the head by a prostitute. In 1989, Deadwood made history by legalizing gambling, becoming the third place in the United States to do so, following Atlantic City and the state of Nevada. Although the stakes were more limited compared to its predecessors, this marked an important milestone for the town. Keep in mind that despite its aspirations, Deadwood is still a small town with a population of fewer than 2000 people, nestled in a sparsely populated area. Come and explore the captivating tales that have shaped Deadwood into the intriguing place it is today.

Get in

Located 42 miles northwest of the vibrant city of Rapid City, Deadwood offers a mesmerizing escape into the heart of nature. To reach Deadwood from Rapid City, embark on a thrilling road trip via US Route 14A, providing you with stunning vistas and unforgettable moments along the way. If you happen to be driving from Wyoming on I-90, taking the exit towards Deadwood and driving for 8 miles will lead you directly into town. While Deadwood and the surrounding Black Hills area are best explored by car, you can also avail of transportation services such as Airport Express, Discovery Tours, and Dakota Taxi. These reliable providers offer convenient transport options, including pick-up from the Rapid City airport. If you prefer public transportation, Prairie Hills Transit is delighted to offer one-way and round-trip services to and from Rapid City, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Click [2] to view fare rates and schedules for Prairie Hills Transit. Discover the charm and wonders of Deadwood with ease and convenience!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing