Devils Tower National Monument continued its centennial celebration with special activities on July 4th. The events highlighted the climbing history at Devils Tower. Visitors came from as far away as Florida and New Jersey to enjoy the activities. Superintendent Dorothy FireCloud said, “I am pleased so many people participated in our Fourth of July Celebration. Our two special events have been very successful and I invite everyone to come enjoy our remaining three events as we celebrate Devils Tower National Monument's centennial”.
The day began with an American flag ceremony by the Calvary re-enactors from Sturgis, South Dakota, followed by a human flag organized by the Black Hills Area Boy Scout Council. Forty-five visitors participated in a free beginners climbing workshop offered throughout the day. The Black Hills Climber Coalition participated by climbing the Tower and displaying an American flag. To the delight of visitors, volunteer Chris Klinger dressed as Uncle Sam and climbed the Tower in various locations. More than sixty people visited with Devils Tower’s climbing pioneers such as Todd Skinner, Paul Piana, Jim McCarthy and Dennis Horning. Jan Conn, the first woman to rock climb the Tower, also told stories of her climbing experiences. The day concluded with a spectacular fireworks display at the Devils Tower KOA campground.
Devils Tower was proclaimed America’s first national monument on September 24, 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Centennial events will continue with the Cowboy Festival on July 22-23, the American Indian Heritage Weekend on August 25-27, and conclude with the Anniversary Celebration on September 22-24. For more information and a complete schedule of events, please visit www.nps.gov/deto or call 307-467-5283.
