2013 Belle Fourche Magazine

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Discover Belle Fourche

CLEM ROBERT

ERT ENTS/ROB

TS GALL CLEMEN

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Welcome to Belle Fourche........................................................... 3 Center of the Nation Monument............................................. 4-5 Tri-State Museum.................................................................... 7-8 Downtown Belle Fourche............................................................ 9 Historic Walking Tour................................................................ 11 Arts & Entertainment........................................................... 13-14 River Walk............................................................................ 16-17 Geocache................................................................................. 18 Bronze Statues.......................................................................... 19 Things to Do in Belle Fourche.............................................. 22-23 Penny Pincher........................................................................... 24 Warrior Trail.............................................................................. 25 Hunting & Ranching Experiences.............................................. 27 Hunting & Fishing............................................................... 29-30 Rocky Point Recreation Area...................................................... 31

up Parade!

rche Round

Belle Fou joying the

En

Making an Impact

Economic Development....................................................... 32-33 Belle Fourche Railroad............................................................... 35 Agriculture................................................................................ 37 Belle Fourche History........................................................... 39-40 Belle Bits................................................................................... 41 History of the Black Hills Roundup....................................... 43-44 Belle Fourche Area Community Center..................................... 45 Mark Your Calendar COURTESY SD TOURISM

2013 Community Events.......................................................... 47 Belle Fourche Rodeo Action................................................. 48-49 Butte/Lawrence County Fair...................................................... 51 Center of the Nation All Car Rally............................................. 53

Center of the Nation monument

Get to Know Us

Demographics & Resource Directory................................... 54-55 Belle Fourche School District 9-1............................................... 57 Churches.................................................................................. 59 Kids Corral........................................................................... 60-61 Belle Fourche Dining................................................................. 62 Belle Fourche Lodging.............................................................. 63 City Map............................................................................. 62-63 Welcome to Belle Fourche is a special publication of the Black Hills Pioneer. © 2013 Black Hills Pioneer

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Black Hills Pioneer 315 Seaton Circle Spearfish, SD 57783 (605) 642-2761

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www.bhpioneer.com

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For more information about anything in this publication, please go to www.bellefourchechamber.org or call 605-892-2676 or 1-888-345-5859.

Cover photo: Les Voorhis/Focus West Gallery Publisher: Letti Lister Project Coordinator: Sona O’Connell Designer: Melissa Barnett

Enjoying the Belle Fo

urche Roundup!

Fourche River Walk Belle the A pleasant day along What a great day!

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Special thanks to the Tri-State Museum and Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce for their assistance with this publication.

Welcome to Belle Fourche

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photography /jodie b

When visitors arrive in Belle Fourche, they are welcomed with open arms and invited to immerse themselves in the cowboy lore and all of the Wild West history area residents have come to embrace.

This gateway to the Northern Hills has so much to offer, while still providing a hometown atmosphere and an enriching way of life. Whether it’s taking in a rodeo, perusing a museum or art gallery, shopping at all of the unique downtown shops, or enjoying a nice meal — there is truly something for everyone.

Belle Fourche, which translates from French into “beautiful fork” is nestled between the Redwater and Belle Fourche rivers and surrounded by Hay Creek. One of its claims to fame is the Black Hills Roundup, one of the oldest outdoor rodeos in the country. Known as the greatest show on dirt, the rodeo started 1918 and decades later the event still draws thousands of visitors to the community every year surrounding thes Fourth of July. The other is the fact that Belle Fourche is truly the geographical center of the nation, and a beautiful monument was constructed at the Chamber of Commerce to highlight the fact and provide an experience for visitors.

The breadth of history that Belle Fourche is known for, is something to experience.

It all began when some of the area’s first settlers found the area to be profitable in the fur trade, and soon it became a rendezvous point. Then, during the Black Hills gold rush in 1876 treasure seekers quickly realized that the fertile valleys around Belle Fourche provided land for farmers and ranchers to prosper. When the cattle business picked up across the United States, a stage line was constructed between Medora, N.D., and Deadwood in 1884 and a way station was built on a ranch owned by Sol Star and Seth Bullock. A few years later, news of a possible freight stop in the area and in 1890 a railroad terminal was built where the Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange sits today.

xendale

Black Hills Pioneer

JODIE Ba

By Heather Murschel

welcome

Cowboy town features rich history and a hometown feel

Black Hills Pioneer

South Dakota sits front and center in the United States, geographically, and Belle Fourche holds the distinction as being the center of the nation since it is the closest community to the geographic point.

The geographical center of the landmass of the United States moved on Aug. 21, 1959, the day that Hawaii became the 50th state, and on Aug. 21, 2007, the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce and the Center of the Nation Planning Committee marked the spot by dedicating a new monument next to the Center of the Nation Visitor Center attached to the Tri-State Museum.

Made from South Dakota granite, the 21by-40 foot compass rose marks Belle Fourche as the Geographic Center of the United States, with a 12-inch bronze marker from the National Geodetic Survey verifying the location.

“Belle Fourche is proud to be called the Geographic Center of the Nation,” said Teresa Schanzenbach, executive director of the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce.

The monument was designed by local

artist and musician Monte Amende and constructed by local contractors. The monument was unveiled and officially dedicated in the summer of 2009.

Amende wrote the following in a brief article about the monument: “Rarely do concepts spring forward as quickly and forcefully as the Compass Rose. The idea stems from my longtime fascination with the graphic style and artistic rendering of maps, as Wedding party at th e Center of the Natio well as having been raised in n monument Belle Fourche, our geographic significance as center of the

nation ingrained in my childhood memories.

Beyond this, the compass has intrinsic properjourney, both physical and spiritual; a clear ties as a symbol: a resource for direction on a point of reference or origin.”

Located at latitude 44 degrees 58’N, longitude 103 degrees 46’ W, which is approximately 20 miles north of Belle Fourche, the center of the nation is actually in the middle of private property. While visitors can visit the flagpole located there, the landowner does not want to develop the

courtesy watson

Kaija Swisher

photography

Center of the Nation monument

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In 2012, it was reported that approximately 20,000+ people visited the monument.

Schanzenbach added, “It is more than just a destination or mark on the map. It marks the Heart of America where life is uncomplicated, people are friendly and a true sense of community rings true.”

monument

property, so the monument is located in Belle Fourche.

An engraved courtyard, picnic area and avenue of state flags also adorn the monument, as well as the trailhead for the Belle Fourche River Walk, which features a 9-hole disc golf course.

To drive to the actual geographic center of the nation (50 States): • From the intersection of Hwy 85 and 212, drive 13 miles north on Hwy 85.

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• Turn left onto Old Hwy 85 and drive 7.8 miles until you see a barn on your left hand side.

• On the right side of the road you will see a US flag flying freely in the pasture. At this location you will see the survey marker in the ground highlighting the “Center of the Nation.”

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Documenting a rich history: Tri-State Museum a staple for the “Old West” traditions

include an all-purpose gallery to be used Robbery featuring the Sundance Kid and for events including gallery showings and the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang. hands-on education for children; office A military section with uniforms and space, and new display areas. memorabilia from the Civil War through As visitors enter the museum, the first Vietnam, includes the story of Don Smith, display to greet them is the “Early Cattle a local hero who was part of the Doolittle Companies”. At one time Belle Raiders during World Fourche was the largest shipThe museum houses War II. Guns, local ping point of range cattle in the a pioneer a unique collection industry, world. Many of the cowboys of home complete that attracts the area rode with Seth Bullock’s with fashions and thousands of cowboys to the 1905 inaugurafurnishings, a music tion of Theodore Roosevelt. room, and doctors visitors every year The Black Hills Roundup and seeking to learn more and attorneys’ paraRodeo, now in its 94th year, about the history of phernalia round out plays a large part in the history the main collections Belle Fourche and the of the Tri-State Muof this area. The Roundup began Tri-State region. seum. in 1918 as a benefit for the Red Located next to Cross during World War I, bringthe museum is the “Buckskin” Johnny ing $20,000 for the war effort. During the Spaulding Cabin. Spaulding was an avid Roundup rodeo, the challenge of riding hunter, scout, and guide. The two-stoTipperary, the legendary bucking horse, ry cabin, which originally stood at the set the momentum, and the rodeo became lower Redwater River just north of Belle an annual Fourth of July celebration, Fourche, was built from hand-hewn logs which continues to this day, attracting hauled from the surrounding hills. After overflow crowds from everywhere.

In the museum, visitors will find the MUSEUM continued on pg. 8 story of the Great Butte County Bank

ROBERT CLEMENTS/ROBERT CLEMENTS GALLERY

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museum

The Tri-State Museum is certainly a must see for anyone visiting or relocating to Belle Fourche.

Since 1955, the Tri-State Museum has collected historical materials from the early settlement of the Tri-State area, including the corners of South Dakota, Montana and Wyoming.

The objective of the museum is to tell the stories of the early pioneers and those who followed them and to preserve that legacy for future generations.

The museum houses a unique collection that attracts thousands of visitors every year seeking to learn more about the history of Belle Fourche and the Tri-State region.

The non-profit museum opened in 1955 after Mrs. Roy Williams, of Hammond, Mont., donated $1,000 and a western collection started by her late husband.

To accommodate this collection, local businesses and interested parties grouped together to create the historical center.

In 2004, the museum opened in its current location. The museum foundation is currently involved in a capital campaign to raise funds for an addition that would

courtesty tri-

building the cabin, Spaulding invited his sister and brotherin-law and their six children to move to the area. For two years they lived together in this cabin, now equipped with furnishings and artifacts that reveal the modest lifestyles of the era.

In 1960, the W.A. Helmer family donated the cabin to the museum, and the Belle Fourche Lions Club provided renovations.

In 2006, it was moved to its present location near the banks of the Belle Fourche River at the Center of the Nation. Museum Director Rochelle Silva invites you to step into the cabin and learn the story of Buckskin Johnny and the girl he left behind. “I love a happy ending,” she says, “and this happy ending is real life.”

The museum offers a number of programs to attract area residents, as well as visitors.

There is a $3 admission for adults older than 16, and children are always free. Anyone who pays admission once can request a pass and return anytime during the year. One monthly event offered by the museum is a

state museum

MUSEUM continued from pg. 7

ate Museum ys at the Tri-St

spla

Admiring the di

“First Saturday Brunch” featuring brunch as well as a program. The programs are always free; brunch is $5 for the public. “Friends of the Museum” receive brunch free each month. Contact the museum for more benefits of our “Friends” program.

For more information, visit www.thetristatemuseum.com or call director Rochelle Silva at (605) 723-1200.

Summer Hours: Monday-Saturday • 9am-6pm Sunday • Noon-5pm Fall & Spring Hours: Tuesday-Saturday • 10-4pm Closed Sunday & Monday Winter Hours: Tuesday-Friday • 10-4pm Closed Saturday - Monday Admission: $3.00 16 & Under - Free Group tours available.

For monthly event listings, visit TheTriStateMuseum.com

Welcome to the Friendliest Town in the Tri-State Area...

Belle Fourche & The Center of the Nation Visit our Unique Businesses, Great Merchants, Services & Eateries AmericInn Lodge & Suites of Belle Fourche American West/Ranchers Grill Belle Flowers, Gifts & Decor Belle Fourche Livestock Belle Inn Restaurant BH Laundry & Dry Cleaning BH Pioneer/Prospector Black Hills Team Black Hills Roundup Committee Branding Iron Steakhouse Budget Appliance & Dollar Store Butte County Post

Collins Cleaning Systems, LLC Dairy Queen Dakota Lumber David Pummel & Associates E.T. Sports E.T. Tire Elsie Hicks - Reid Motel Fast Break Screen Printing & Embroidery Finkbeiner Feed & Seed First Interstate Bank Frontier Glass Hair Gallery Hersrud’s of Belle Fourche Hills Interiors Homestead Nursery Integrity Meats KBFS-KYDT Lifestyles Lindstad Alignment Lueders Food Center Lynn’s Dakotamart Main Insurance

Mason’s 5th Ave. Miki Dee’s - State St. Coop.

Motive Parts & Supply Nehl Dental Inc. New China Garden Office Emporium Pete’s Clothing/Western Wear Pioneer Bank & Trust Posy Palace Randy’s Discount Tire Robert Clement's Gallery Ross Equipment & Rental Roundup Building Center Sand Creek Printing Scissors 5th Ave. Scott Peterson Motors South Park Lanes Southside Conoco Stadium Sports Grill Stereo’s N Stuff Stinton Chiropractic Subway of Belle Sunset Motel

"Keeping Belle Fourche in Business."

Center of the Nation Business Association .

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The Mulligan Tim Speidel Business & Tax Service Tripp Family AMC Auto Museum Tri-State Construction Tri-State Museum Wells Fargo West Tire & Alignment Who You Gonna Call MOM

Friendly Downtown Belle Fourche downtown

TO

No matter what you are shopping for and where no matter where you go in Belle Fourche you are guaranteed to find great stores with friendly customer service.

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Downtown shopping • Western Wear • Clothing & Jewelry • Antiques • Gift Shops • Fabric & Notions • Dining & Coffee Shops • Night Life and more!

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azy Days

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2013 Downtown Belle Fourche Events

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The growing community of Belle Fourche has a diverse downtown scene. More than 50 businesses line the streets that comprise the downtown area. Whether you’re in the mood to shop for clothing, antiques, do your banking or just grab a bite to eat, the proprietors who do business downtown can assist in your needs.

Many of the stores are in historic structures – a tribute to Belle Fourche when it was a fledgling community that was built off the back of the livestock industry. Some of those buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

But beyond the heart of the city, Belle Fourche hosts stores that offer agricultural supplies, automotive parts and repairs, laundry services, dining and more – everything residents and visitors need.

CON Business Association Community Easter Egg Hunt...........................................March 23

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Belle Fourche Chamber “What Women Want” Expo.......................................... April 26-27 CON Business Association Crazy Days............................ July 26-27 Belle Fourche Chamber A Chalk in the Park-Chalk Art Festival.............................. August 3 CON Business Association Halloween Parade.............. October 31 CON Business Association Christmas Kickoff & Fireworks.................................. November 29

ROBERT CLEMENTS/ROBERT CLEMENTS GALLERY

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State Street Co-Op Where You’ll Find Something for Everyone

Featuring: Miki Dee’s Boutique Debra McCart

Calamity Jane’s Tack Heidi Woelber

Express Yourself LaRae Hanson

Granny G’s Girls Deb Wheaton

Ooh La-La Holly Main

Weather Hat Co. Jenny Scholl

512 State Street Downtown Belle Fourche 605.723.1111

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Post Cards Vintage Jewelry Depression Glass Toys & Dolls Vintage Clothing Vintage Furniture Record Albums Comics Vintage Christmas Carnival Glass

SD Made Products & Souvenirs Quilting & Sewing Products Custom Matting & Framing Digital Photo Processing Greeting Cards & Gifts Office Products UPS Shipping

Vintage Kitchen Ware Jars Smoking Memorabilia Vintage Glassware Aprons & Linens Vintage Tins

24 hr. shopping online at www.officeemporium.com

Betty Wolf , Owner • 892-4006 • 515 State St., Belle Fourche

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A walk through the history of a cowboy town Black Hills Pioneer

The Belle Fourche of today serves a large trade area of ranches and farms.

Wool, cattle, farming and bentonite industries are an important part of the growth of the town. A walk along the self-guided tour of the historic town can transport a visitor into the reflection of an early 20th century commercial agriculture center.

Many of the buildings have undergone little or no major modifications and hold images of the self-reliant days of cowboys and cattle.

The tour begins at the Belle Fourche Public Library at 905 5th Ave. The tour is a walk of just more than one mile and takes the visitor past many of the sites listed on the National Historic Register.

North of the library sits the Butte County Extension Office. The building is a result of a WPA work project.

Next to the Extension Office is the Butte County Court House. Dedicated in 1912, the building displays native stone and elements of renaissance revival and beaux arts styles.

Along 5th Avenue several homes are located that hold an important place in the history of the town. The Charles Small home was built in 1895 and the Dan McCutchen home was built in the early 20th century.

Looking north while standing at the corner of State Street and 5th Avenue, one can imagine the sights and sounds of Saloon Street during the 1890s. In the early days of the railroad and cowboys, Saloon Street was a raucous and untamed place.

On the left side of the street one of the 13 saloons was housed and upstairs was one of Dora Dufran’s brothels, commonly known as “Diddlin Dora’s.” Calamity Jane worked in one of the brothels as a laundress and cook in the year or so before her death.

Going east on State Street opens up a history book of plans and ideas of the founders of Belle Fourche. Beginning with the Flat Iron building made of brick with a sandstone foundation and an unusual triangular shape and then going past buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s, the names of the buildings tell of ambitions and dreams of the builders. Names like the Gay Brothers, the Townsend Building, Ferrall Hardware and Wide Awake Grocery tell of early entrepreneurs.

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On the next block of State Street stands the site of the original Butte County Bank where a bank robbery occurred June 27, 1897. The total take was only $97 and no one was ever convicted, but the Sundance Kid seems to be one of those involved.

Belle Fourche boasted of an opera house, a boarding house, elaborate dining establishments, a bakery and, of course, a post office, all found on State Street.

The tour continues viewing many beautiful homes ranging from Queen Anne styles to those built by stonemason John Aaron Scotney from the early days of Belle Fourche.

Near the completion of the walking tour, the Butte County Jail can be found.

Completed prior to 1902, it is made from sandstone from the Belle Fourche quarry.

The cost was nearly $7,000. The sheriff’s family lived above the office.

A short drive north, you will find the Tri-State Museum & Visitors Center. On the grounds stand an old sheep wagon and an old tractor, perfect for a photo with family and friends sitting on a piece of history. The Center of the Nation Monument is just a short walk away by the Belle Fourche River.

A self-guided tour book can be found at the Visitors Center or Belle Fourche Public Libray located at 905 5th Avenue.

The Library is open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

historic walking tour

By Betty Bruner

ry of: nd Anderson Bean BowoHtsats to n e v In e a Hug uble H, a at Biz Stra We carrycona, Olathe, Resistonl,, RDeosistol, Atwood and H

ondo, No iley, Stetso cchese, H ts American, Ba u L t, a ri A a a, Tony Lam n & Serratelli Felt H o ts te S l, Resisto

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Taking center stage:

Belle Fourche community embraces arts, music Black Hills Pioneer

Visitors to this quaint community will find out sooner rather than later, how well its residents embrace the arts.

Whether it’s spending a July evening in the park listening to area musicians, touring the local art galleries or attending a well-rehearsed community theatre production, there is plenty to do throughout the year in Belle Fourche.

The music scene: Summer Concert Series in the Park Every Wednesday in July, there is a free concert at the band shell in Herrmann Park. Weather permitting, all of the concerts begin at 7 p.m.

The performance schedule varies year to year – but all of musicians are talented and appropriate for children. Bring a lawn chair, your family and something to drink because this is the best place to be when the sun starts to set after a hot summer day in Belle Fourche. Sponsored by the Belle Fourche Arts Council, this is just one of several activities planned during the summertime.

The Belle Fourche Cowboy Band The Belle Fourche Cowboy Band is the oldest, most established local band in the area. It was officially organized in 1931, but its history goes back before the turn of the century … and it’s a rich history at that.

Today, The Belle Fourche Cowboy Band can be seen performing at nearly every single community event throughout the year and is a staple in all of the parades. One of their most well-known performances occurs during the Black Hills Roundup and Rodeo event, held every single Fourth of July. They are also a common sight at the Butte-Lawrence County Fair held every August in Nisland and are always a vital aspect of the community-wide chuckwagon and ceremonial presentations at the Center of the Nation Monument. Dressed in bright red shirts and white cowboy hats and the

band’s familiar tunes are the backdrop of presentations all over town and families have enjoyed coming to hear their sounds for decades.

The band is made up of a variety of different musicians who come from a variety of backgrounds. For more information on the band, all of their upcoming events, their history and their photo album, visit www.bfcowboyband.com.

Center of the Nation Concert Association In the early 1990s a group of citizens saw an opportunity to expand the culture and bring entertainment to Belle Fourche.

Together, they formed the Center of the Nation Concert Association.

This year’s season ticket holders will enjoy several concerts throughout the year.

The performances, which are appropriate for all ages, are all held at the Belle Fourche Area Community Center, which is located at 1111 National St. For more details on the organization and concert schedule, visit www.centerofthenationconcerts.org.

Audiences for the series come from all across the Tri-State region. Ticket holders can attend, for free, the performances sponsored by similar concert groups in Newcastle, Wyo., and Hot Springs. There is an additional $10 fee for performances offered by the Rapid City Concert Association, and reservations are required at 1-800-469-6463 (1-800-GOT-MINE).

Country Music Talent Contest Some of the Black Hills’ most talented musicians will gather in Belle Fourche for the 5th Annual Eagle Country Dana Dental Arts Texaco Country Showdown Finals set for July 5 at Herrmann Park.

This event is the most popular music talent search contest in South Dakota, as everyone is competing for $100,000 and the title of the “Best New Act in Country Music.”

In order to make it to the finals, the contestants have had to qualify by performing throughout the Black Hills, including Piedmont, Sturgis and Deadwood.

MARK WATSON/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Performance dates for qualifications are as follows: Feb. 9 at the Loud American Roadhouse in Sturgis; March 9 at the Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood; March 30 at the Elk Creek Steakhouse in Piedmont; April 20 at Bessler’s Cadillac Ranch in Belle Fourche; May 18 at the Loud American Roadhouse in Sturgis; June 14 during Wild Bill Days in Deadwood.

The top two qualifiers of each preliminary round will advance to the final performance scheduled for July 5 at Herrmann Park in Belle Fourche.

For more information on this event, or to perform visit www.myeaglecountry.com or call The Eagle 95.9/96.3 at (605) 642-8800.

Center Stage continued on pg. 14

arts & entertainment

Heather Murschel

Center Stage continued from pg. 13

THE ARTS:

HEL/BLACK HIL HEATHER MU RSC

THEATER: Belle Fourche Community Theatre The Belle Fourche Community Theater is a newly formed non-profit organization made up of a group of volunteers who are dedicated to the staging of top-notch theatrical productions featuring

talent from the Northern Black Hills. They are a part of the Belle Fourche Arts Council and the two organizations work together to bring arts and entertainment to the area.

For information on upcoming shows and events visit www. bfctheater.com, or stop into the Belle Fourche Area Community Center, located at 1111 National St., in Belle Fourche and talk to their staff.

The overall mission of this community theatre organization is to entertain and inspire the audience and participants alike. A group of hardworking volunteers all with a diverse range of expertise and creative backgrounds have been setting the stage for this program since May 2010.

After several successful events, the program has developed nto a vibrant and productive community organization.

courtesy photo

The Belle Fourche Arts Council is a non-profit organization that has been an active part of the community for over 30 years. Its primary goal is to bring art and the appreciation for art to the area through its many events held each year.

The Summer Concert Series in the Park held every Wednesday in July is just one of several ways the organization promotes family-friendly activities in Belle Fourche.

One of the main projects the Belle Fourche Community Theatre assists with is the Talent Showcase Production, which is held at the end of February every year. The event is the biggest and most successful fundraiser for the Belle Fourche Arts Council and has been for over 10 years.

During the summer months, the council works with local musicians and sets up a free concert in the park after the Black Hills Roundup Parade held on the Fourth of July.

In order to share their love of the arts with the younger generation, many of the Belle Fourche Arts Council members have sponsored visiting arts programs for the Belle Fourche School District and assist with finding volunteers to help out area youth when it comes to arts related activities.

LS PIONEER

Belle Fourche Arts Council

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Belle Fourche • 14

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S' THE BLACK HILL

LARGEST VITANERSS IFEACTILYITY F

• • • • • • •

•

• • •

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Cardio Equipment Circuit Training Free Weights Hammer Strength Machines Heavy Boxing Bags Commando Cardio Classes Tae Kwon Do & MMA Classes 2 Tanning Beds & Wet Sauna Kids Play Room Personal Training Services Gift Certificates Available

• Phillips 66 Convenience Store (Open 3:30 am-11 pm daily) • Mason Jar Deli

(Homemade grab ‘n go breakfast items, subs, desserts, salads, soups, hot dishes & pizza)

• Mason Jar Bakery

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(Homemade strawberry margarita jam)

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1830 5th Avenue • Belle Fourche, SD • 605-892-2020 • 1-800-688-4913 .

Belle Fourche • 15

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SONA O’CONNELL/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Belle Fourche • 16

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Y

Visitors to Belle Fourche can get out and enjoy the weather and scenery on the River Walk, a five-mile paved path that highlights the outdoor beauty of the city.

A project that began 20 years ago, the River Walk was slowly installed throughout the last seven years and features a pedestrian/bike path section, as well as an adjoining sidewalk and urban street section that intersect, converge and wind through the city, as well as connect the city’s parks and landmarks.

“Now you can go to the ‘forks,’” said River Walk committee member Susan Peterson. “You can actually walk out to the point where the Belle Fourche River and the Redwater River meet and converge. It’s really a treat.”

Sections of the River Walk wind along both the Redwater River and Hay Creek.

Peterson said that because of the joint efforts of the city and bike path committee, along with business and private donations, there are several resting points along the River Walk’s way, including benches, water fountains and restroom facilities nearby.

There is a picnic area in the vicinity of the Avenue of Flags, a nine-hole golf course just west of the visitors center, an ice skating rink adjacent to Weyler Park and a loop section around Herrmann Park, which is used by

many children as their maiden voyage both on the path and on their trikes and bikes.

“We like to think we have some pretty nice parks here,” said Public Works Director Dirk Hoffmann. “We have an excellent parks supervisor. He and his staff do a great job maintaining all of our city parks.”

Belle Fourche Chamber Director Teresa Schanzenbach said Jones Park receives the most traffic and features basketball and tennis courts, a common target for younger crowds in the community. Herrmann Park is best for family gatherings and the like, with its picnic areas and open lawns.

“It just depends on what you’re looking for because each of the parks has its own unique thing,” Schanzenbach said.

The River Walk is fully signed with large maps posted along the route. This fall, the River Walk will receive an extension of about 900 feet.

Crews will connect the path from the Hay Creek bridge at Highway 85, to Pine Street near Dairy Queen. Steve Nafus, the city engineer said in the future the path will continue to extend west.

MENTS GALLER

Black Hills Pioneer

TS/ROBERT CLE

Mark VanGerpen

• Arnold Park - State St. • Eagle Park - Elkhorn St. • Gay Park - North 8th Ave. • Herrmann Park - 8th Ave. • Highland Park - National St. • Jones Park - 11th Ave. • Memorial Park - National St. • Rail Park - State St. • Weyler Park - 7th Ave.

ROBERT CLEMEN

River Walk leads visitors on city park tour

There are nine parks located throughout the City of Belle Fourche.

The Forks

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Belle Fourche • 17

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Hide & Seek:

Geocache in and around Belle Fourche

By Heather Murschel Black Hills Pioneer

Geocaches can be found all over the world, and Belle Fourche features 13 of them in city limits, 30 of them within 10 miles of town and 158 within 20 miles.

Whether it’s Herrmann Park or along the banks of the Redwater River and Hay Creek, geocaches are hidden throughout the area and range from beginner to the more advanced.

The most common way to secure the coordinates for the caches in the area is to log onto www.geocaching.com, search the site and find out where you’d like to go. Securing a membership is easy at geocaching.com. Once you are logged on,

choose a user name, enter a password that is easy for you to remember and your primary e-mail address. Agree to the terms, double check your validation code and set up your account.

Now it’s time to seek and find!

To find the caches in and around Belle Fourche, click on “Play” in the navigation bar and scroll down to “Hide & Seek a Cache.” From there, you have the option to enter an address, a zip code or simply by state and country. The zip code for Belle Fourche is “57717,” which is the easiest way to find what’s available.

Once you choose your location, enter the coordinates of the cache into your GPS Device and use it to assist you in finding the hidden cache. Caches vary greatly in size and in appearance. Most of the information on the size of each cache is shown on the page when you retrieve the coordinates. Larger caches most often feature trade items, which adds a twist to the activity by

JODIE Baxendale/jodie b photography

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Belle Fourche • 18

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creating a sense of a treasure hunt. Anyone is welcome to bring something to add to the cache, and those who find the cache are more than welcome to take a trade item for themselves. Once you’ve located it, sign into the logbook provided and return the geocache to its original location.

Don’t forget to take photos and share them with the rest of the geocaching community online.

Legacies of Belle Fourche

By Betty Bruner

BETTY BRUNER

/BLACK HILLS

PIONEER

Sculptor Tony Chytka has immortalized some of the rodeo legends of the Belle Fourche area in bronze.

Chytka is a rural South Dakota native, rancher and former champion bull rider and now sculpts western and rodeo scenes in bronze.

Greeting visitors coming in from the south on Highway 85 stands the tall figure of a cowboy “breakin’ his bronc”.

Located at the intersection of 5th Avenue and National Street, the six-foot bronze known as “Lasting Legacy” exemplifies the heritage of the western town. It shows the hardiness of the cowboy as he readies his ride for use on the prairie.

Belle Fourche is known as a “cowtown” and is proud of it. That’s what has made it a place to take the time to appreciate the sights of the town.

On the corner of State Street and 5th Avenue, Chytka has molded a sculpture of modern day buffalo tamer Jerry Wayne Olson sitting on his buffalo, Chief. Olson performed for many years at rodeos and western events across the country with the buffalo – even riding the large animal. He is the third generation of a family of rodeo entertainers from the area.

Several blocks away and just kitty-corner from each other, are the Garrett brothers, top pro rodeo contestants who hail from the Belle Fourche area.

t statues can be Bronze western ar

geocaching and bronze statues

The likeness of Marvin Garrett is found on the northwest side of the corner of State Street and 6th Avenue, while Mark Garrett is on the southeast corner of the intersection.

Marvin was a four-time National Finals World Bareback champion and has been inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame.

Mark was National Finals World Bareback Champion in 1996.

Several more statues can be found along the River Walk and at the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce, including The Peace Memorial statue and the Overpeck Family Memorial statue.

Black Hills Pioneer

Left: Dedicated July 3, 1989 to celebrate a century as a state, “Lasting Legacies” proudly greets visitors to Belle Fourche at the intersection of 5th Avenue and National Street.

ut the town.

found througho

BETTY BRUNER/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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High Plains Western Heritage Center Peggy Ables 605-642-WEST (9378) www.westernheritagecenter.com

Tri-State Museum

Rochelle Silva 605-723-1200 www.thetristatemuseum.com

Vore Buffalo Jump

Glen Wyatt 307-283-3581 www.vorebuffalojump.org

Buffalo Jump Saloon & Steakhosue Joleen Hart 307-643-7173 www.buffalojumpwyoming.com

Spearfish Canyon Lodge Linda Ahlers 877-975-6343 www.spfcanyon.com

The Old Fort Meade Museum Bob Kusser 605-347-9822 www.fortmeademuseum.org

~ To book a discount package which includes lodging and this self-guided tour, call: Black Hills Central Reservations 1-800-344-6181 or visit www.blackhillsvacations.com

~ 2013 Schedule of WeStern eventS ~

July 3, 4, 5 & 6 - Black Hills Roundup - Belle Fourche Ranch Rodeo followed by PRCA Rodeos. The community has celebrated this Annual Event since 1918. www.tristatemuseum.com July 27 - National Day of the American Cowboy High Plains Western Heritage Center Featuring the induction of Russ Madison into the National Rodeo Hall of Fame. www.westernheritagecenter.com June 1 - August 30 - "The Unquiet Utes" Exhibit Old Fort Meade Museum A summer-long exhibit telling the story of 400 Ute Indians who left their reservations in 1906 and moved into the High Plains country.

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Welcome to Belle Fourche.

Promoting a Healthy Community for 21 years!

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1111 National St. Belle Fourche, SD 57717 (605) 892-2467

2312 Dakota Avenue, Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605.892.0900 800.634.3444 americinn.com

and endangered See many rare nd the world. birds from arou ional for the at Fun and educ t lack Hills Parro entire family, B t ofi pr n no r emie Welfare is a pr s. rd bi ic ot ex r fo s facility that care

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ON SITE SERVICES Bird Placement Consultation Rehabilitation Conservation Adoption Boarding Sanctuary Education Bird Supplies

11132 Valley 1 Rd., Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605-892-2336 • www.blackhillsparrotwelfare.org

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Things to Do in Belle Fourche ,

heather murschel/black hills pioneer

Belle Joli Winery 1218 6th Ave. www.bellejoli.com The winemakers at Jackson Vineyards brought their dream of owning a Black Hills vineyard to a reality more than a decade ago. Belle Joli’, French for “a delight to the senses,” offers a taste of wine from grapes grown right in the Black Hills. The winery produces half a dozen different wines, including both red and white varieties.

Matthew Jackson received his enology degree from California State University, Fresno, and is the state’s only enologist. He uses French hybrid varietals developed between Cornell University and the University of Minnesota that are well-suited to the short growing season in South Dakota.

courtesy black hills parrot welfare

black hills parrot welfare & education center 1132 Valley 1 Rd. www.blackhillsparrotwelfare.org Over the years, Belle Fourche has become home to dozens of rare and exotic birds.

Black Hills Parrot Welfare houses a variety of different parrot species that have been abused, neglected, or simply outlived their humans and have nowhere to go. Whether it’s a toucan or a Moluccan Cockatoo that is 68 years old, certified avian specialists Greg and Cindy Poulain treat each bird with the utmost respect and care for them as if the birds were always theirs.

The center is funded with public donations, fundraisers, membership dues and grants. They also sell quality pet supplies in their retail store at the front of the building.

Whether it’s dog food, cat toys or bird items, they have it all. The money is all donated back to the center for education, training and to continue caring for the birds.

heather murschel/black hills pioneer

robert clements gallery Corner of State St. and 5th Ave. The talents of a local artist can be seen at the Robert Clements Gallery. The gallery is a recent addition to Belle Fourche and features photography and paintings by Clements, who said his work is dedicated to capturing the true beauty of the landscape. His work captures the subtle, timeless beauty of the prairie in all of its seasons and aspects.

Born in Quinn, S.D., Clements grew up on a working farm-ranch in Haakon County and studied art at the University of South Dakota and the University of Wisconsin. He added his gallery to Belle Fourche last year, and is “dedicated to being a good neighbor.”

HEATHER Murschel/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

southpark lanes 510 National St. Hit a strike in Belle Fourche’s bowling alley, South Park Lanes.

This 12-lane alley is home to several bowling leagues. Built in 1964, the alley is owned by Rick Wessels who has run the local lanes since 1977. The bowling alley is open on Tuesday evenings during the summer and hosts winter leagues for men, women and mixed teams Monday through Friday starting in September. It is also open to the public at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in the winter. Call 605-892-2626 for open bowling availability.

courtesy tri-state museum

the forks Belle Fourche, a French name meaning “beautiful forks,” is so called for the three bodies of water that converge at the same point. The Redwater and Hay Creek rivers, as well as the Belle Fourche River, all join just outside of town.

The forks are easily accessible from the River Walk bike path, which runs along right alongside the rivers, allowing walkers, bikers, and joggers to get very close and personal with Belle Fourche’s namesake landmark.

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DISC GOLF Disc golf aficionados have a beautiful place to throw and stroll in Belle Fourche, right on the banks of the Belle Fourche River – the meanest water hazard in the Northern Hills.

The nine-hole course starts behind the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce building at 415 5th Ave., right next to the Center of the Nation monument, and meanders along the banks of the river.

Each of the course’s nine-holes are rated Par 3. Hole distances vary from 152 feet to 367 feet, totaling 2,642 feet over all. Scorecards and course maps are available at the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce front desk.

Belle Fourche Country Club S. Hwy 85 www.bellefourchecountryclub.com Looking to spend some time on the green? Belle Fourche Country Club, a nine-hole course nestled in the northern corner of the Black Hills, offers a challenging opportunity to everyone. The course is surrounded by pine trees with wildlife and abundant ground foliage sure to test even the most avid golfer. In fact, their second hole is rated the second hardest par-3 in the state. The newly added restaurant is now open.

Come and enjoy Belle Fourche Country Club as a member or guest and be a part of our family at the #1 club of the Northern Hills.

For more information, please call (605) 892-3472.

GALLERY 97 606 6th Ave. (1 block north of Main St.) www.galleryninetyseven.com In 1897, Harry Longabough, better known as the Sundance Kid, robbed the Butte County bank. He made off with $97.

The city hall building was 97 steps away.

More than a century later, the old city hall building has been renovated into an art gallery, aptly named Gallery 97.

Owned and operated by John and Meg English, Gallery 97 features quilts, bottle stoppers, wooden pens and gifts all handmade in South Dakota. Up-and-coming artists can even head to the upper levels of the building for classes on woodworking, stained glass, and pottery. The gallery emphasizes woodwork and has an array of accents, cutting boards and handcrafted furniture for sale.

Homestead Nursery walking garden 1728 5th Ave. Anyone with a green thumb can wander over to the Homestead Nursery to tour a free display garden. The garden includes one of the widest varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials and flowers in South Dakota.

The garden has been a work in progress for the past 24 years and today includes a network of walking paths and bridges running throughout the grounds. Everything from tree peonies and daffodils to tree-form lilacs and Chinese lilacs provide walkers with a rich, relaxing experience on quiet afternoons.

Belle fourche skate park National St. Skateboarders can feel right at home in Belle Fourche with free access to the public skate park. The park boasts stairs, ramps and rails, and is located in Highland Park next to the Belle Fourche Area Community Center.

The skate park is open all day long, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., but there are no lights to keep it lit at night, so skaters usually go home at sundown.

Bird watching Throughout Belle Fourche Belle Fourche lies just beyond the Northern tip of the Black Hills of South Dakota and is the central location for a variety of birding habitat.

You can pick up suggested birding locations and routes at the Visitors Center.

Current bird sightings for South Dakota are available on the internet at SDOU.org.

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things to do in belle fourche

COURTESY GALLERY 97

Mark vangerpen/black hills pioneer

Tripp family amc rambler car collection 709 State St. Car lovers will be able to catch a glimpse of America’s last independent motor company at the Tripp family car collection. Ellis Tripp, a resident of Belle Fourche, has built a collection of over 30 cars made by the American Motors Corporation, an independent manufacturer that operated from 1954-1987.

Tripp’s collection includes models like a 1966 Ambassador, a 72 Javelin, a 64 Rambler, and a 390 cc, 315 horsepower 1968 AMX, which was originally made to compete with the Corvette. His autos have won awards all over the country, including the George Romney award, the second-most prestigious award for AMC cars. All his cars are licensed, and he drives them all. To set up a showing, call Tripp at (605)641-9941.

Penny collectors rejoice!

Now you can get a collectible penny token during your visit to the western town of Belle Fourche and they’re available exclusively at the Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce office located at 415 5th Ave. For collectors of all ages, penny tokens are a fun and inexpensive way to commemorate your trip to Belle Fourche with three unique designs; the Black Hills Roundup Rodeo, Tri-State Museum and the Center of the Nation Monument All you do is put in your penny plus two quarters, crank the rollers and watch as your token is

made right before your very eyes!

They also have passport books available to keep your tokens organized.

Elongated tokens have been around since the 1892-93 World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago, Ill. There were four different designs made to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s landing in America.

They have become quite a specialized collectible with some people focusing on anything from travel themed tokens, Christmas tokens, political tokens or even everything produced by one specific roller.

No matter what your level of interest, you’re sure to have fun getting your one-of-a-kind penny token from the Center of the Nation! Belle Fourche, among other machine locations, can be found at www.pennycollector.com.

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U.S. Highway 212 from Crow Agency, Mont., to Belle Fourche is the shortest distance between the Little Bighorn Battlefield and Mount Rushmore. Between 1865 and 1877, as American Indian tribes desperately tried to retain their lands and culture, and the soldiers of the U.S. Army strove to enforce an edict from Washington, D.C., many battles of great historical significance marked this corridor.

This stretch of highway has been officially designated as the Warrior Trail.

BILLINGS

39

BELLE FOURCHE

59 EXIT 510

LITTLE BIGHORN BATTLEFIELD

ROSEBUD BATTLEFIELD

314

REYNOLDS BATTLEFIELD MONUMENT

212

59

90 COURTESY SD TOURISM

ameRican WesT Plaza

RancheR TRails TRadinG GRille end PosT s aloon Steak Tips World Famous

Rancher Tenderloin

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A comfortable neighborhood bar with a relaxed atmosphere.

Take Out Available 605-723-0139

Happy Hour 605-568-0130

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1807 5Th avenue .

Belle Fourche • 25

A unique blend of treats and treasures!

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716 10th Ave. • Belle Fourche • 892-3866 Extended Hours Call

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Fran Fremont Broker Associate

Larry Vavruska Broker Associate

605-210-1780

JUST DOWN THE ROAD FROM HIGH PRICES

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Arlene Hindbjorgen Broker Associate

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Broker Associate

Jodie Henry

Broker Associate

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Broker Associate & Auctioneer

Jon Faust

Broker Associate

Broker Associate

Alan Crago

Broker Associate

Don Aaker

Broker Associate

Mike Kaitfors Broker Associate

Melissa Dean Broker Associate

Rory Zimbleman Broker Associate

Angela Raber Broker Associate

KNOWLEDGE. INVENTORY. RESULTS! 605-642-4607 or 605-892-2021

123 E. Jackson Blvd. #3, Spearfish Gail Tysdal

Broker Associate

Rick Tysdal Broker/Owner

www.spearfishrealty.com DAKOTA BELLE - SPEARFISH REALTY

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Belle Fourche • 26

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Licensed in SD, WY & MT. Each office is independently owned & operated.

Belle Fourche provides many hunting and ranching experiences Black Hills Pioneer

LES VOORHIS/FO

CUS WEST GAL

LERY

Be our guest! For those who are interested in hunting anything from antelope to turkeys, or who just want to enjoy the wide-open prairie, the Belle Fourche area has what it takes.

There are several outfitters ready to assist the novice or seasoned hunter.

Not only does Crow Creek Guest Ranch provide guided hunts to make an outstanding hunting experience, but it also offers the opportunity to be part of a working ranch.

The 4,000-acre working cattle and guest ranch overlooks the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills. Activities include moving and sorting cattle, and maybe “doctoring” one or two sick cows. Learn to rope, ride and care for a horse that is already there and available for riding, cattle drives and riding lessons. The ranch is owned by Todd and Cindy Larsen and is located northwest of Belle Fourche near the Wyoming border.

Ranch home lodging with homecooked meals is provided by Center of the Nation Hunting, hosted by Guy and Shanna Howell. With more than 30,000

acres, trophy hunts offered by the Howell family have a 100 percent success rate.

The hunt is catered specifically to the hunter’s desires to make it a success.

High Plains Game Ranch is found along the Belle Fourche River, about 15 miles east of Belle Fourche just off Highway 212. On a hunt at High Plains Game Ranch there is an opportunity to harvest rooster pheasants, Chukar partridge and Hungarian partridge. Deer and antelope packages are also provided during seasons set by the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks. The hunting guides, including owner Randy Vallery, are avid sportsmen themselves, with extensive knowledge of dogs, guns and wild game. Each hunting party is furnished with a guide and hunting dogs for a safe, quality hunting experience.

Colony Outfitters, with headquarters near Colony, Wyo., 25 miles northwest of Belle Fourche, offers hunters full access to 22,000 acres that are teeming with trophy game. A professional guide with knowledge of the land will determine the difference between a bad day in the

LES VOORHIS/FOCUS WEST GALLERY

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field or the ultimate hunt. The expanse of the prairie is habitat to mule deer, antelope, whitetail deer, turkey and pheasant.

Jim and Roxie Dacar strive to build long lasting friendships as they provide hunters with a peaceful and relaxing experience.

hunting & ranching experiences

By Betty Bruner

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Belle Fourche • 28

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HUNTING & FISHING continued on pg. 30

URISM

The thousands of acres of ranchland around Belle Fourche are not only home to ranchers’ cattle and sheep, but it is also home to a diverse crop of wildlife and prime hunting.

From whitetails and mule deer to upland game and antelope, hunters have plenty of animals to pursue.

The final years of the decade were some of the best for nearby antelope herds.

Hunters were chasing record numbers of pronghorn and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks was issuing large number of licenses to help curb the population.

Wildlife officials estimated the 2012 population, at 34,000 animals. The 2012 harvest report was not available yet, but in 2011 rifle hunters purchased about 6,000 antelope licenses. Some were double

tags meaning hunters could kill two antelope with one license.

To this end 4,500 antelope were killed – a 50 percent success rate.

Each year, when the West River deer season opens, traditionally in mid November, hunters head to the nearby ranches and walk-in areas in hopes of taking one of the large mulies or whitetails that feed in the alfalfa fields or sagebrush draws. In 2008

SY SD TO

Black Hills Pioneer

Abundant

courtesy black hills, badlands & lakes

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Belle Fourche • 29

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wild game!

COURTE

Mark Watson

hunting & fishing

Belle Fourche home to prime hunting and fishing

HUNTING & FISHING continued from pg. 29

the state record mule deer was killed just north of Butte County. Large deer numbers prompted wildlife officials to keep hunting pressure of the herds. The West River season saw about 30,000 licenses sold in 2011, with hunters taking 31,800 deer, a success rate of 48 percent for all tags sold. While the majority of hunters chasing deer around Butte County are seeking a large mule deer, the whitetail population is still high and large bucks can be frequently found.

While South Dakota’s central and eastern counties are home to massive pheasant populations, a hearty population of pheasants call Butte County home. The birds can be found in the same type of areas as they would in prime pheasant habitat – near corn, in cattails, in tree rows and in alfalfa fields.

Sharptail grouse and very limited sage grouse can also be hunted.

Large turkey populations also give hunters a chance at providing the bird for a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. The populations have grown in recent years to levels that create problems for ranchers and wildlife officials.

At many of the area lakes and stock ponds waterfowl can be abundant. The numbers of birds are not nearly what hunters can find along the Missouri River or in the eastern part of the state, but success can be found especially in creeks that remain open long after the flat water freezes over.

Belle Fourche is also home to one of the largest bodies of water in the state, the Belle Fourche Reservoir. Fishermen use the shores, their boats and the ice to bring home their daily catch of walleye and other fish. When the walleye spawn, the dam becomes alive with fishermen trying to catch the big one.

Catfish and bass can also be found in the large body of water that has filled to near capacity in recent years after nearly a decade of drought.

Other nearby lakes and ponds and the Redwater River are home to prime fishing.

COURTESY SD TOURISM

Belle Fourche Healthcare Community and Sunpointe Assisted Living We make it our highest mission to provide the best quality of care in a compassionate and positive environment. Whether you need short-term rehabilitation, long-term care or professional care assistance while living independently, we are here for you!

605.892.3331

605.892.3333

2200 13th Avenue, Belle Fourche SD .

Belle Fourche • 30

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Rocky Point Recreation Area at Belle Fourche Reservoir Location: 8 miles E of Belle Fourche off Hwy 212 GPS Coordinates Lat: 44.709229 Long: -103.7 Availability: Open year round.

Primitive camping available.

Campsites available up to 90 days prior to arrival.

History: The 8,000-acre Belle Fourche Reservoir was created in 1911, when Orman Dam was constructed to store water for agricultural use. At the time of its completion, Orman Dam was the largest earthen dam in the world. In 1989, Orman Dam was designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

Fishing: The Belle Fourche Reservoir has an average depth of 25 feet with areas as deep as 60 feet when full. The reservoir is a

high density walleye fishery with several other species, such as channel catfish, yellow perch, black crappie, smallmouth bass, white bass and tigermuskie.

Park entrance license required year round: $6/day/vehicle or $30 for an annual pass

Anglers fishing for walleye often report high catch rates all year long with a good launching spot at Rocky Point Recreation Area.

Fishing license required.

Camping & Fees: $14/non-electrical, $18/electrical site per night.

Camping cabins $37 per night.

66 sites. Three accessible sites.

ROCKY POINT RECREATION AREA Facilities: 61 Electrical campsites 2 Camping cabins 5 Group camping sites Comfort station (showers and flush toilets) Dump station Boat ramp Fish cleaning station Paved roads Picnic shelters Playground Canoe/Kayak rentals Drinking water Fishing pole checkout Game checkout

COURTESY SD TOURISM

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Belle Fourche • 31

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Reservations: (800) 710-CAMP (2267) or www.CampSD.com.

Up to 90 days prior to arrival.

Nature Day Camps: 9:30am - 12:00pm • Kids ages 7-12 June 18 - Kids Fishing Derby July 17 - Nature Explorers Contact Information: Rocky Point Recreation Area 18513 Fisherman’s Road Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605-641-0023, RockyPoint@state.sd.us Source: South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks gfp.sd.gov, 605-892-4968

recreation

BELLE FOURCHE RESERVOIR

Making an Impact ,

10 Miles S. to I-90 175 Miles N. to I-94 12 Miles S. to Spearfish, SD 103 Miles W. to Gillette, WY 286 Miles N. to Williston, ND

Milestone year for Belle Fourche industrial growth

to Bismarck

Paul Higbee

Special to the Black Hills Pioneer

to Billings NORTH DAKOTA SOUTH DAKOTA

MONTANA WYOMING

to Gillette

Sights and sounds of industrial construction in 2013 attest to a milestone year for Belle Fourche economic development efforts.

The community claims a proud business history, especially as the agricultural and legal services center for a vast “tri-state area,” comprised of northwestern South Dakota, northeastern Wyoming, and southeastern Montana. But if Belle Fourche business leaders from the best of economic times in past decades could see their town today, they’d likely shake their heads in pleased amazement.

Belle Fourche Industrial & Rail Park

BLACK HILLS

scheduled for completion in Fall 2013

Belle Fourche Development Corporation 511 6th Ave., Belle Fourche, SD 57717 • www.BelleFourche.org • (605) 892-3006 • Fax: (605) 723-0897 .

Belle Fourche • 32

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A key to this remarkable burst of business activity

is Belle Fourche’s enviable location. It sits within easy driving distances to Wyoming’s well-established oil, gas, and coal fields and to North Dakota’s booming oil production industries. Black Hills tourism and the surrounding region’s cattle, sheep, and irrigated farming enterprises keep the local economy well diversified.

SONA O’CON

NELL/BLACK

HILLS PIONEE

R

Belle Fourche Development Corporation

Plus, said Belle Fourche Development Corporation president Scott Peterson, pro-active and forward-looking people live in Belle Fourche.

“All of this is happening because we have a progressive group of leaders and community people,” he said. “Our mayor and city council have been great to work with.”

Below: John Scull of J. Scull Construction, Wayne Spencer of Nexbank, Mahesh Gehani of Nexbank, Belle Fourche Mayor Gary Hendrickson, Pipeline Plastics Vice President of Sales Mary Houston, South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard, Pipeline Plastics Vice President Keith Fisher, and Pipeline Plastics President and CEO Monty Fisher dig in the dirt at the official groundbreaking of Pipeline Plastics’ new Belle Fourche manufacturing facility.

aDAM HURLBURT/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Belle Fourche • 33

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Partners for Success • • •

• • •

Site Selection Assistance Planning and Coordination Assistance Accessing Special Incentive Programs Financial Packaging Industry/Government Liaison Retention/Expansion Programs

“All of this is happening because we have a progressive group of leaders and community people.” ~ Scott Peterson

President, Belle Fourche Development Corporation

COURTESY PAU L HIGBEE

The CBH Coop erative Travel open its door Center will s in spring 20 13, giving Be another plac lle Fourche e to fuel up wi th gas and fo od.

economic development

Among Belle Fourche Development Corporation goals that have been or will be achieved in 2013 are: • Completion of a 100 acre, state-of-theart Industrial and Rail Park. Infrastructure will support industrial plants of any size.

City bonds of $4.5 million made the park possible, and it is taking form close to the busy junction of U.S. highways 212 and 85.

The Canadian Pacific rail line runs along the park’s southern property line, and the site will feature its own rail yard.

• The highly respected Belle Fourche Development Corporation became an independent entity.

• For the first time Belle Fourche will have a full-time economic development director, hired by the Belle Fourche Development Corporation after a regional search.

• Pipeline Plastics, the newest major industry to make Belle Fourche home, will open the doors to a just-constructed plant producing piping for both the oil industry and municipal water services.

B ELLE F OURCHE L IVESTOCK E XCHANGE “Where the Ring is the Scale” With over 30 years of experience, we will get you back on the road.

Auto Body & Collision Repair Auto Body Painting Vehicle Restoration & Repair Frame & Unibody Restoration SuperLiner Spray on Bedliners

IGHT Make the R choice...

We are an Authorized Repair Center for all insurance companies.

Insurance companies can’t tell you where to take your car - that is called “steering.”

It is illegal and should be reported to the Insurance Commissioner.

Remember, it is your car and your choice.

West Hwy 34 • 605-892-4320

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CATTLE SALES EVERY THURSDAY

605-892-2655 or

1-800-894-8684

Owners: Dean & Eileen Strong

Belle Fourche Livestock is a representative for Western Video Market

w w w. b e l l e f o u r c h e l i v e s t o c k . c o m

Belle Fourche • 34

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Belle Fourche owes its start to the railroad railroad ROBERT CLEMEN

TS/ROBERT CLE

Y MENTS GALLER

wool, grain, flour and numerous other items for the industry. The rails now reach to Colony, Wyo., where the railcars carry bentonite, a mined substance used in a wide variety of products from kitty litter to cosmetics.

Today the railroad in Belle Fourche is seeing a modern boom thanks to the oil fields in North Dakota. A new rail park is being created in the city and a high-density polyethylene pipe manufacturer is opening a new facility in Belle Fourche because of the railroad and the city’s proximity to the oil fields.

Construction on the rail park is expected to begin this spring.

The Canadian Pacific Railway operates the lines in and around Belle Fourche.

BLACK HILLS

PIONEER FILE

PHOTO

In 1890, the railroad had been built west to a point that is now Belle Fourche. On Sept. 16 of that year, the first load of cattle was shipped by railcar to eastern states. Over the next two months nearly 1,300 railcars of cattle were transported to markets. The first rail station in the cowtown was completed in December 1890.

The success of the railroad then brought about the platting of Belle Fourche in the spring of 1891 and land parcels were sold starting in June of that year. The railroad made it possible for the region’s agricultural industry to have easy access to a highly efficient means of delivery for its products to market.

In 1892 nearly 4,000 railcars of cattle were being shipped from Belle Fourche.

By 1895 that number had soared to 2,500 railcars of cattle per month, making Belle Fourche the largest shipper of cattle in the world.

Over the decades the railroad has shipped numerous agricultural commodities from Belle Fourche including

KAYLEE TSCHETTER/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Belle Fourche • 35

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Come See Us in Belle Fourche!

New Faces are Always Welcome!

Please, use our website

RoundupBuildingCenter.com

as a source to find out what we can offer you.

We are your full service lumber & hardware dealer.

Key Cutting Lock Keying Services Window & Screen Repair Custom Metal Bending Custom Homes Pole Buildings

Whatever you have in mind for your retirement, it’s nice to know you can trust a Farmers Insurance and Financial Services agent to help you reach your individual goals. Because we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions about your financial future. To learn more about how to get where you want to be, contact me today.

We strive to exceed customer expectations.

Phone

1-605-892-2094 Toll Free

1-800-733-2094 Fax

Stephanie Lee 605-723-2046 http://www.farmersagent.com/slee8/ 807 10th Ave. Belle Fourche, SD

1-605-892-2096

Bob Gerkin

~ New Patients Welcome ~

Alan Kindsfater

Technology Driven Practice Family Dentistry • Orthodontics Cosmetic Dentistry • Implant Dentistry

John H. Jackson, DDS • Christopher J. Jackson, DMD Extended Hours & Fridays

Tom Steele

866-892-2113 Toll Free or (605) 892-2113 1828 5th Ave. • Belle Fourche

www.tristaterealty.net 1.605.892.6347 • 1.877.412.2978

503 Jackson St., Belle Fourche, SD • www.jacksondentalclinic.com

.

Kathy Dornink

Belle Fourche • 36

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Photo courtesy SD Tourism

Agriculture mainstay of Butte County

Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange a staple for cattle community During the busy months, the Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange is bustling with buyers and sellers. People travel from Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota and throughout South Dakota to buy and trade cattle.

The Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange was originally built in 1935. With a rich history and a staple for economic development in Butte County, it is by far the largest livestock exchange facility for miles.

The stockyards exist because one man had a vision of building a town around a railroad. Though the train system is no longer utilized to transport the cattle, the location of the Dakota, Minnesota & East- ern Railroad was the reason it exists.

COURTESY SD TOURISM

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Belle Fourche • 37

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photography /jodie b

Agriculture is South Dakota’s number one industry and in Butte County, it’s a way of life.

“It’s handed down from generation to generation around here,” said TJ Swan, formerly with the Butte County Cooperative Extension Service. “If you’ve got the land to do it and the gumption to fight the markets, it’s just what you do.”

“South Dakota has always been and will continue to be an agricultural state,” said Bill Evan, with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture. He noted that the economic impact of agriculture in South Dakota exceeds $21.3 billion and employs more than 173,000 people, directly and indirectly.

According to an agricultural census, there are a total of 584 farms in Butte County, making up a total of approximately 1.2 million acres. Of that, a total amount of 163,375 acres is used for cropland.

The largest agriculture operations are mostly cattle production and farming. An average of 60,000 head of cattle are roaming throughout the county in a given year.

And, he said, because of the open prairie land, it makes for excellent crop production, which in turn, provides feed for cattle producers.

“When the rains are heavy in the spring around here, it can make for a healthy amount of forage for cattle,” Swan said. “Western wheatgrass is one of the best forage for cattle and we certainly have a lot of that around here.”

Corn is among the most produced crop in Butte County; alfalfa and soybean production come in right after.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Butte County ranks number one in sheep production, with at least 42,000 head.

Statewide, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reports there are approximately 305,000 head of sheep and approximately 3.7 million head nationwide.

JODIE Ba xendale

Black Hills Pioneer

agriculture

Heather Murschel

According to history records, the valley that Belle Fourche lies in was first settled in 1876 after gold was discovered in the Black Hills. Shortly thereafter, Seth Bullock came to the Black Hills and settled around the Belle Fourche River. Bullock, a frontier marshal and rancher, offered a free right of way and offered to build the terminal to the proposed railroad company looking to build a new rail system through the Black Hills. That location at the Old Middle Creek shipping yards is where the present day Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange sits. By 1895, Belle Fourche was shipping 2,500 carloads of cattle east every month during the busy seasons, making it the world’s largest livestock shipping point at that time. Most of the cattle were shipped to markets in Chicago and Omaha, Neb. Transporting the cattle became a lot easier and less expensive, therefore making the location perfect to create weekly markets for stock.

Financial Products Life Insurance • Long Term Care Insurance 401 (k) Rollovers • IRA's

Becky Gropper, Agent 605-723-2481

New York Life Insurance Company 2398 5th Avenue, Ste. 105 Belle Fourche, SD 57717 bgropper@ft.newyorklife.com www.bunneysbodyandcollision.com

David Pummel & Associates, LLP Certified Public Accountants Business & Personal Advisors

Turn your excess into CASH!

“Large enough to know, small enough to care.”

Consignments needed.

Sales monthly at the Moose Lodge, 399 Stanley St.,Belle Fourche.

• • • • • • • •

Watch for signs.

On or Off-Site Auctions

estate sales • antiques • coins business liquidations • property farm machinery • vehicles

preview our upcoming auctions online at sdauctions.com

Income Tax Preparation Income Tax Planning Bookkeeping Payroll Auditing Quickbooks Consulting Management Advisory Services Estate & Gift Planning

Dakota West Auction Jack Verry, Auctioneer Belle Fourche, SD 605-641-3226 dakwestjake@yahoo.com

PO Box 278 • 1301 8th Avenue • Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605-723-1040 • www.pummelassoc.com

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Belle Fourche • 38

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Gateway to the Northern Black Hills Kaija Swisher

Black Hills Pioneer

la’s right-of-way and demanded a high price for the land the railroad wanted.

Seth Bullock, having acquired land along the Belle Fourche River since his arrival in Deadwood in 1876, appraised the situation and decided to offer the railroad free right-of-way across his land, in addition to offering to build a terminal if the railroad would locate it on his land.

His business partner, Sol Star, sent word to the railroad that he would not approve any deal that Bullock promised unless the railroad also built into Deadwood. The railroad officials recognized a deal when they saw one and agreed to the terms, and following the agreement, the railroad terminal was built in 1890 in the place where the present Belle Fourche Livestock Exchange sits. Seth Bullock supposedly requested the town name after the last rail was hammered into place.

The town was born, lots were sold, and the first trainload of cattle departed from Belle Fourche in 1890. However, free lots in town were offered to businesses moving from Minnesela, and while GATEWAY continued on pg. 40

LES VOORHIS/FOCUS WEST GALLERY

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Belle Fourche • 39

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belle fourche history

Like many places, the area now known as Belle Fourche was inhabited long before a name or township was ever established.

The name came when France held the claim on the area and French explorers found the meeting point between the Redwater and Belle Fourche rivers and Hay Creek. Belle Fourche (pronounced Bell Foosh) translates to “beautiful fork,” and many beaver trappers found the area to be profitable in the fur trade, making Belle Fourche a rendezvous point during the 1800s for trappers and traders.

After the Black Hills gold rush in 1876 brought treasure seekers of all sorts to the area, the fertile valleys around Belle Fourche provided land for farmers and ranchers to prosper, as they had ample customers at the mines in need of food and work animals.

The plains throughout the United States, and even those beyond its borders, were filling with cattle, and service areas and towns began to appear to meet the needs of the cattle business. The stage line between Medora, N.D., and Deadwood

was established in 1884, and a way station, known as De Mores, which included a stage barn and a saloon, was built on the SB Ranch owned by Sol Star and Seth Bullock. After only a few stage runs, however, the stop proved unprofitable, and the stagecoach no longer took the route that included De Mores. While the saloon remained open, it wasn’t until the railroad came along that Belle Fourche really made a mark on the map.

Everyone in the area knew that the Fremont, Elkhorn, and Missouri Valley Railroad, under pressure from the cattle barons, would soon need a freight stop in the area for herds before shipment to packing plants in the Midwest, and though the town of Minnesela, near Belle Fourche and more developed at the time, was the favored choice of location by the railroad, a spectator purchased Minnese-

GATEWAY continued from pg. 39

photo

est livestock shipping point.

Belle Fourche was no longer a simple stage stop; it was, and still is, an agricultural center for the region. Unfortunately, a fire in 1895 destroyed most of the business district, but within three months, it was almost completely rebuilt.

Many buildings were moved from Minnesela; unfortunately, without a railroad, the town slowly diminished and is now Sol Star a nd Seth B considered a ghost town, ullock at th e Belle Fou but many of the buildrche River ings in Belle Fourche’s present downtown business district remain from the rebuilding after the fire in 1895. nearly $20,000 for the war effort.

Belle Fourche made headlines again in Though the war ended the year after, the 1897 when a member of the Hole-in-thepopularity of the rodeo made it an annual Wall gang attempted to rob the Butte Counevent that continues each July. ty Bank. Belle Fourche is also home to one Belle Fourche continues to serve as a large of the oldest outdoor rodeos, the Black Hills trade area for wool, cattle, and bentonite Roundup, which started in 1918. Originally industries which have been instrumental raising funds for the Red Cross during World in the growth of the town. Serving as the War I and named the ‘Tri-State Roundup,” “Gateway to the Northern Black Hills,” Belle the Black Hills Roundup drew 15,000 specFourche describes not only the intersection tators to Belle Fourche its first year, though of waterways, but also the intersection of the population of the town at that time was history, commerce, and community which under 1,500 and there were no roads and makes a mark on the area and state in a few cars to speak of in the area. The Roundvariety of ways. up started on the Fourth of July and raised courtesy

there was some bad feeling for the past between the communities, many businesses did move to the thriving town. The early days of Belle Fourche revolved around the cattle business, and known as a “cow town,” Belle Fourche catered to cowboys and cattlemen. The town’s original main street (now Fifth Avenue), nicknamed Saloon Street, quickly filled with businesses, including several saloons, restaurants, clothing and grocery stores, a hotel, and Star and Bullock’s hardware and furniture store.

After losing the railroad depot, the community of Minnesela also lost the Butte County seat to Belle Fourche in 1894, after an election where, supposedly, hundreds of voters were “imported” to ensure the desired outcome in Belle Fourche’s favor. Seth Bullock once again intervened on behalf of Belle Fourche, raising $2,000 to build a two-story building for a courthouse once the county seat transferred. After elated jubilation once the vote passed, a few overzealous citizens of Belle Fourche rode into Minnesela and stole the county books, though the transfer would not take place until the first of the new year.

Growing from a rendezvous point for trappers to the county seat, Belle Fourche was on its way to establishing itself as an important community in the area.

Just five years after the first trainload of cattle left its depot, Belle Fourche shipped 2,500 carloads per month in 1895 in the peak season, becoming the world’s larg-

courtesy tri-state museum

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Belle Fourche • 40

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belle bits

e l l Be s t i B

In July 1918 a telegram was sent to President Wilson offering a donation of a prize lamb which brought $5,425 at a Red Cross Auction at the first Black Hills Roundup in Belle Fourche. The telegram asked for the lamb to have a “meal” on the White House Lawn. The president replied, “I appreciate your telegram and admire the work for the Red Cross…thanks for thinking of me, but I have no means to care for such a lamb.”

All this and more at the Tri-State Museum!

At the turn of the century, Calamity Jane returned to the Black Hills in her final stages of raging alcoholism. One of the most famous madams, Dora Du Fran took in Calamity Jane where she worked as the brothel’s laundress and cook until her death August 2, 1903.

The Great Butte County Bank Robbery in 1897 was committed by the Hole-In-the Wall Gang including Kid Curry, the Sundance Kid, and Tom O’Day. Wells Fargo Bank currently sits on the site of the Butte County Bank.

How to keep the cowboys in town when they came to ship the livestock?

They wanted gambling, drink, dance, and girls. The merchants of Belle saw that the cowboys had what they wanted or they would have taken all their money to Deadwood.

On March 13, 1907, John C. Perrett, “Potato Creek Johnny” who found the largest gold nugget in the Black Hills, married Mollie Hamilton at the Butte County Courthouse.

They had no children, and the marriage was reported as stormy. They separated after 20 years and divorced Sept. 3, 1928. Mollie died in Belle Fourche in 1944 and is buried in Pine Slope Cemetery.

The Doolittle Raid, April 1942, was the first air raid by the US to strike a Japanese home island. Lt. Don Smith, Belle Fourche High School Class of ’36, USAA Corps, piloted the 15th plane to take off from the aircraft carrier Hornet. Lt. Smith crash landed off the coast of China. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Military Order of China from Madame Chiang Kaishek and earned the rank of captain. He was honored by his hometown of Belle Fourche at the 1942 Black Hills Roundup. In November of 1942 Captain Smith died while piloting a plane over western Europe. He was inducted into the South Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame in 2012.

Photos courtesy tri-state museum

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Belle Fourche • 41

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Belle Fourche once had a traveling house of prostitution that floated up and down the Belle Fourche River. In 1919, the town “tried to spoil a man’s fun.” They voted out prostitution and voted in prohibition.

A local milliner made hats giving the girls at the brothels first choice. Once a hat was chosen, that model was taken off the market so proper women of the town would not be seen wearing the same hat.

The famous bucking horse, Tipperary, was inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1979. He was credited with dumping 80 riders before Yakima Canutt made a qualified ride in 1920. Canutt also rode the famed bronc a second time in Belle Fourche in 1921.

The colt was rejected by military horse buyers because he bucked off all riders. A saloonkeeper, who won the horse in a poker game, bet a local bronc rider $500 that he couldn’t ride the horse. The cowboy was bucked off and sat in the dust singing “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary”, a famous World War I song. The name caught on and Tipperary began a bucking career that lasted until 1928.

The 1972 Western movie, “The Cowboys”, starring John Wayne, Slim Pickens, and Robert Carradine’s film debut, is a classic cowboy tale.

Each year Belle Fourche celebrates the only motion picture to feature the town and the days of the 1800s before cattle trucks and before railroads crossed the west.

A life-size likeness of John Wayne can be found at the Visitors Center, ready for a photo opportunity and to greet visitors to the area.

The Best Tacos in Town!

Specialists in High Plains Memorabilia Antique Firearms • Books Beadwork ª Photos ª Cowboy Gear Ranch Primitives

Buy ª Sell ª Trade

WAKE UP TO WEST-MEX FREE

Junior Breakfast Burrito Belle Fourche restaurant only. Expires Feb. 28, 2014

930 Harding Street Belle Fourche

605.568.0173

11thHourGulch@gmail.com 1401 Mill St., Belle Fourche • 605-892-6436 • 7am-10pm daily

WESTERN STAR, INC. 512 Industrial St., Belle Fourche, SD 57717 1-800-658-5565 ~ Serving the Black Hills since 1992 ~

Post-Frame Buildings

www.westernstarbuildings.com ~ 605-892-3376

Midland Garage Doors ~ Service ~ Parts 605-892-3376 or 605-641-6929 (c) www.wsigaragedoors.com

Jacuzzi Hot Tubs ~ Finlandia Saunas ~ THE BIG GREEN EGG ~ Parts ~ Service ~ Supplies www.rocknspas.com ~ 605-892-4952

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Belle Fourche • 42

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History of the Black Hills Roundup Rodeo “ear” a horse, two or three cowboys would catch its head and bite its ear to control it, distracting it long enough to saddle up and hop on. In the ladies’ bucking contest, women were required to “shackle” their horse, tying the stirrups together underneath the horse, as it was believed to be safer and easier for the women to thus participate.

The feature of the first Roundup was the appearance of Tipperary, the famous Harding County bucking horse, ridden by only one man. Thirteen years old and over 1,000 pounds, Tipperary drew a huge crowd, and though the crowd saw Sam Brownell of Cheyenne, Wyo., finish his ride, a technical error disqualified him.

He switched hands in the middle of his ride, and though the judges did not see it, he admitted his mistake and Tipperary remained a “one man” bronc.

Roundups, through the 20s, consisted of whatever the organizing group at the time decided to do, as there was no standard or type of events for a rodeo. Many events at the early Roundups were organized by the Bit and Spur Saddle Club, which added to the entertainment and fun of the rodeo atmosphere. The Hide Race consisted of a rider racing across the arena pulling a cowhide behind his horse to where his partner waited to jump onto the hide for the ride back across the arena.

The rodeo events were canceled in 1929 because of the mud in the arena, and an early newspaper clipping tells of what replaced the events: “a burlesque show was put on for two or three hours …”

Outdoor rodeos today are rarely, if ever, stopped on account of weather, and there is plenty of evidence to suggest the appearance of mud on many horses and competitors throughout the action of the Roundup.

The 30s brought the chance for the younger generation to particin! p celebratio ls Roundu

Black Hills Pioneer

adam hurlburt

HI /BLACK

LLS PIONE

ER

Started in 1918 to raise funds for the Red Cross during World War I, and named the “Tri-State Roundup,” the Black Hills Roundup drew 15,000 spectators to Belle Fourche its first year … an incredible number, as the population of the town at that time was under 1,500 and there were no roads and few cars to speak of in the area.

The Roundup started on the Fourth of July and raised nearly $20,000 for the war effort.

Though the war ended the year after, the popularity of the rodeo made it an annual event.

The benefit raised money through an auction and everything from livestock to a pet antelope to doughnuts were sold.

Another more patriotic fundraiser was the “German Kaiser Bill Coffin Scene,” where a person paid 25 cents for a nail to hammer into the coffin and received a war Thrift Stamp for the effort of hammering the Kaiser’s coffin shut.

The first Roundup consisted of saddle bronc riding, wagon, horse and relay races, bulldogging, steer and calf roping, cow pony races, and a ladies’ bucking contest.

Simple in setup in its humble beginning, the rodeo had no chutes or stands, and the arena was barely fenced in enough to keep the horses from getting out. Obviously this made for more risk, as the contestant would have to catch the bronc before a ride. The rules were simple: choose a bronc, “ear” it, climb on, nod, and start. To

d

Carnival ri

lack Hil

ring the B

street du es fill the

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Belle Fourche • 43

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history of the black hills roundup

Kaija Swisher

MARK WATSON/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

pate in the events of the rodeo. A rancher would agree to bring a dozen calves, and children could earn $1 to ride a calf in the arena. Many youngsters also practiced their trick riding during the Roundup.

Since the 40s, buffalo have been present throughout the Roundup events, either in staged stampedes or entertainment. In the 40s, a buffalo hunt would be staged, as actors dressed in Native American garb to chase the buffalo as they ran through the arena, and in more recent years there have been trick acts with buffalo performing all sorts of interesting feats.

ROUNDUP HISTORY continued on pg. 44

Chariot racing became a favorite in the 50s and 60s, where a two-wheeled cart pulled by one horse held a racer, and many contestants readied their horses for this event as they traveled.

The horse would pull the family and rodeo supplies to Belle Fourche in true practical training, and later race against

ROUNDUP HISTORY continued from pg. 43

one another with much lighter loads.

The formation of the PRCA (Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association) standardized seven events for the Roundup: bareback riding, tie-down roping, team roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing and bull riding.

The Roundup will be celebrating its 94th year July 2-6, 2013.

aDAM HURLBURT/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Michael R. Dana, D.D.S., P.C. Nicole D. Dana, D.D.S. Monique M. Dana, D.D.S. Bradly R. Dana, D.D.S.

Handcut Steaks Prime Rib Burgers Wraps & More!

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Belle Fourche • 44

A beautiful smile is always in style!

1306 Main Street - Spearfish, SD 605.642.7727 or 888.826.7470 Visit us on the web at www.danadentalarts.com

,

Mark Watson

Black Hills Pioneer

The Belle Fourche Area Community Center will celebrate its 21st year of service this February. The Center opened its doors in February of 1992 offering a place and programs for area residents to stay active year-round.

The Center is home to a 25-meter swimming pool, wading pool, waterslide and whale slide, gymnasium, walking track, theatre and more, all indoors to provide quality entertainment and athletic opportunities even during the depths of winter.

As the Belle Fourche community changes, they too evolve to meet the ever developing needs. Their purpose remains the same, but the way they fulfill that purpose is constantly being scrutinized and changed.

New features providing for those ever developing needs include Wi-Fi network availability and a family locker room.

Director Michelle Deyo-Amende is excited about the fully quipped, handicapped accessible locker room that opens directly into the pool area, “It’s basically an area for parents with children or a mom with a disabled child to have a locker room to meet their needs.” The room provides 10 lockers for a one group or family-at-a-time usage.

Sona o’connell/BLAC

K HILLS PIONEER

“We really do offer something for everyone and would love for you to experience the fun.” ~ Michelle Deyo-Amende

Director, Belle Fourche Area Community Center

KAYLEE TSCHETTER/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Belle Fourche • 45

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Fitness facility:

Take a walk on the track, a swim in the pool, a jaunt on the elliptical or lift a few weights in our weight room.

Programs offered:

• Women on Weights • 500 Mile Club • Volleyball Men’s, Womens and Co-ed • Softball Men’s, Womens and Co-ed • Basketball Men’s and Womens • Fitness & Pool Fitness Classes • SilverSneakers® & SilverSplash® • Zumba® and More!

Youth Programs:

• Basketball • Swimming Lessons • Little Dribblers • Bronc Volleyball Camp • Camp Oasis - childrens program • Toddler Gym • Teen Activities and More!

Facility Hours:

Monday-Thursday 5am-9pm Friday 5am-8pm Saturday 8am-6pm Sunday 1pm-8pm

Pool Hours:

Monday-Friday 2pm-7:30pm Saturday 10am-5:30pm Sunday 1pm-7:30pm Memberships or daily passes available.

605-892-2467 www.bellefourche.org

community center

Belle Fourche Area Community Center offers year-round activities

Home Sweet Home Yours All Yours Your home is one of the biggest investments you will ever make. As licensed realtors with over 35 years of combined experience, we’re here to guide you through every phase of the home-buying process with skill and integrity. We look forward to helping you find the perfect home!

Christy Rodgers 645-0131

krodgers@rushmore.com

410 South 32nd St., Spearfish, SD www.christyrodgers.com

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Belle Fourche • 46

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Gail Pullen 641-8485

gpullen@midconetwork.com

events

Mark Your Calendar! , 2013 community events

2.......... 5th Annual BH Roundup Invitational

Golf Tournament, BF golf course 2-4 ...... Miss Rodeo South Dakota Contest 2-6....... 94th Annual Black Hills Roundup &

PRCA Rodeo - full schedule and

concert announcements at blackhillsroundup.com 3-7 ...... NorthStar Amusement Carnival,

downtown Belle Fourche

. file photo

October:

5.......... First Saturday Brunch, 10 am,

Tri State Museum 31........ CON Business Association

Halloween Parade,

downtown Belle Fourche 31........ 13th Annual Halloween Spooktacular, BFACC

All Car Rally Block Party

November:

2.......... First Saturday Brunch, 10 am,

Tri State Museum 9.......... Peaches 69th Birthday Celebration,

10:30 am, Black Hills Parrot Welfare 11........ Veterans Day Program,

Belle Fourche Middle School 29-30... Tri-State Craft Fair, Community Hall 29........ CON Business Association Christmas

Kickoff and Fireworks, downtown

Belle Fourche

December:

7.......... First Saturday Brunch,

10 am, Tri State Museum TBA...... Festival of Trees, First Interstate Bank

RY

July:

7.......... First Saturday Brunch,

10 am, Tri State Museum 16-20... CON Series Marathon,

5 state marathon www.mainlymarathons.com 28........ Chamber Agri-Business

Appreciation Banquet

ENTS GALLE

1.......... First Saturday Brunch, 10 am,

Tri State Museum 6-8 ...... South Dakota Fire Fighter Fire School, BFACC 8.......... 11th Annual Hay Fever Run/Walk, 8:45 am 14–15... Parrot Festival, 10:30 am,

Black Hills Parrot Welfare 14........ 26th Annual Center of the Nation

All Car Rally Block Party,

Scott Peterson Motors, 5th Avenue 15........ 26th Annual Center of the Nation

All Car Rally, Herrmann Park 15........ BH Roundup National Anthem Contest,

12pm, Herrmann Park bandshell 19-23... South Dakota High School State

Finals Rodeo, Roundup Grounds

September:

BERT CLEM

June:

3.......... First Saturday Brunch, 10 am,

Tri State Museum 3.......... A Chalk in the Park-Chalk

Art Festival, Herrmann Park 5-11..... 73rd Annual Sturgis

Motorcycle RallyTM 14-17... Butte-Lawrence County Fair,

Nisland Fairgrounds 19........ School Resumes - Grades 5-12 20........ School Resumes - Grades K-4

Schedule subject to change.

Check www.bellefourchechamber.org for additional events.

EMENTS/RO

4.......... First Saturday Brunch, 10 am,

Tri State Museum 6.......... Belle Fourche High School

Band Concert, 7 pm, BFACC 7.......... Belle Fourche Middle School

Band Concert, 6:30 pm, BFACC 13........ Belle Fourche High School

Choir Concert, 7 pm, BFACC 14........ Belle Fourche Middle School

Choir Concert, 7 pm, BFACC 18........ Belle Fourche High School Graduation 27........ Memorial Day

August:

More event dates on pages 9, 13, 14 & 49.

Little specta Enjoying the

.

Belle Fourche • 47

,

tors at the B

lack Hills R

Belle Fourche

Roundup!

oundup Par

ROBERT CL

May:

e Park

ER

6.......... First Saturday Brunch,

10 am, Tri State Museum 8.......... High School Jazz Concert,

7 pm, BF Area Community Center (BFACC) 13........ Center of the Nation Sportsman’s

Banquet, Community Hall 16........ “Take Me Home” a tribute to John Denver,

CON Concert Association, BFACC 20........ Belle Fourche High School Prom 26-27... “What Women Want” Expo,

Community Hall 26-28... BFHS Spring Muscial, BFACC Theatre

Chalk in th

CK HILLS PIONE SONA O’CONNELL/BLA

April:

3.......... 4th Annual Ranch Rodeo,

Roundup Grounds 3.......... Cattle Drive,

downtown Belle Fourche 4.......... Fourth of July Parade, 10:30 am,

throughout Belle Fourche 5.......... Fireworks, dusk 5.......... Texaco Country Music Showdown,

2 pm, Herrmann park 6.......... First Saturday Brunch, 10 am,

Tri State Museum

pioneer

1-2....... BFMS Play, BFACC Theatre 2.......... First Saturday Brunch,

10 am, Tri State Museum 8.......... BF Chamber Annual Banquet,

Community Hall 17........ Purple Pride 5k Run/Walk, Herrmann Park 23........ Tri-State Museum Annual Banquet 23........ Community Easter Egg Hunt,

10 am, Roundup Grounds

Black hills

March:

ade

Belle Fourche: South Dakota’s rodeo home

By Adam Hurlburt

Black Hills Pioneer

Rodeo is the offic

ial sport of the st

ate of South Da

MARK WATSO N/BLACK HIL LS PIO

NEER

Belle Fourche has made a name for itself as a rodeo town. Much of that is due to the popularity of the historic Black Hills Roundup, an annual Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeo that’s been held here since 1918.

“The Black Hills Roundup is much more than a rodeo, it’s a regional event filled with history and a centerpiece of the area’s Fourth of July celebrations,” said Black Hills Roundup Chairman Mark Leverington. “It’s a huge event. Tens of thousands of people from all over the world come to the Black Hills Roundup.”

This year’s rodeo will feature saddle bronc riding, a cattle drive, mutton bustin’, and a high school rough stock competition, among other events.

While the rodeo itself is certainly the big draw, there’s enough going on at the Black Hills Roundup to please almost anyone. There are carnival rides, art shows, concerts and much more. The Black Hills Roundup’s July 5 fireworks display is among

JODIE Baxendale

/jodie b photography

kota!

aits his turn at

Little cowboy aw

Mutton Bustin’

JODIE Baxendale/jodie b photography

.

Belle Fourche • 48

,

the best in South Dakota, and the Independence Day parade is one of the largest in the state.

The event is also home to the Miss Rodeo South Dakota pageant. A B-1 bomber flyover opens the Fourth of July rodeo.

While the Black Hills Roundup is the biggest rodeo in Belle Fourche, it’s doesn’t stand alone.

Belle Fourche is home to many other rodeos as well.

The annual Belle Jackpot Association Rodeo takes place again this year. This rodeo features roping, goat tying, barrel racing and pole bending events and features contestants of all ages.

The Get the Green Slot and 4D Barrel Races offer three days of barrel racing, from Friday, Aug. 30 to Sunday, Sept. 1. It also features entrants of all ages.

The Butte County 4-H Rodeo also calls Belle Fourche home. This rodeo is open to South Dakota 4-H members aged 8 to 18 and features barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, team roping, ribbon roping,

break away roping, goat tying, steer wrestling and pole bending.

The 2013 South Dakota State High School Rodeo Finals takes place from June 19–23. Winners will proceed to the National High School Rodeo Finals in Rock Springs, Wyo.

rodeos

calf riding, senior and junior bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and a pageant called “the Ambassador Contest.” The event takes place on July 14, beginning at 8 a.m. with the Ambassador Contest, which then gives way to the main rodeo events.

Belle Fourche also plays host to the South Dakota State High School Rodeo Finals. More than 1,500 cowboys and cowgirls gather in Belle Fourche each June for the state championship, competing in bareback riding, team roping, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing,

Black Hills Open Horse Show June 1

Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, Belle Fourche

Belle Jackpot Association Rodeo May 29, June 5, 12, July 10, 17, 31, August 7, 21 For more information, contact Chrissy Peterson at 605-347-9166

Professional Rough Stock Rodeo June 7

For more information and tickets, contact the Belle Fourche Chamber at 605-892-2676

SD High School Rodeo Finals June 19-23

94th Annual Black Hills Roundup PRCA Rodeo July 3-6

For more information and tickets, contact the Belle Fourche Chamber at 605-892-2676 or go to www.blackhillsroundup.com

Get the Green Slot & 4D Barrel Race August 30-September 1 For more information, contact Lorita Crofford at 605-642-1940

Butte County 4-H Rodeo July 14th All rodeos are at the Roundup Grounds unless otherwise noted.

Schedule subject to change.

MARK WATSON/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Belle Fourche • 49

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The same year General Custer made his last stand at Little Big Horn, W.A. Laughlin and A.W. Merrick printed the original edition of the Black Hills Pioneer.

As the first newspaper in the West River Dakota Territory and the oldest continuous business in this area, we have a proud history.

We look forward to a strong future.

315 Seaton Circle l Spearfish, SD l 642-2761 l www.bhpioneer.com

.

Belle Fourche • 50

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More than just a county fair

aDAM HURLBURT/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Belle Fourche • 51

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Equipping the leaders of America is the foundation of 4-H. With their head, heart, hands, and health, youth in 4-H start the groundwork on the journey through life.

LS PIONEER RT/BLACK HIL

There’s more to 4-H than the county fair held each year in August. Lawrence and Butte County 4-Hers spend nearly a year working toward the final goal of exhibiting their projects at the county fair level and perhaps making it to the South Dakota State Fair in Huron. There are events all year long for youngsters ages 9 to 18 years.

Presently, there are 350 enrolled in Lawrence and Butte County and numbers are growing Betsy Burtzlaff, the 4-H youth program advisor in Butte County said.

Some projects have the kids busy during the winter months such as shooting sports, foods and photography . Then starting in June, outside activities abound.

July is the month for rodeo! The Butte County 4-H Rodeo is held at the Belle Fourche rodeo grounds July 14.

Contestants compete in events such as flag racing, steer wrestling, saddle bronc, team roping, and bull riding. Of course, there’s goat tying, breakaway roping, pole bending, and barrel racing, too. The top competitors travel on to the Finals Rodeo in Ft. Pierre, SD. The highlight of the 4-H year, though, is the Butte/Lawrence County Fair in Nisland, northeast of Belle Fourche on Highway 212. Held this year Aug. 14-17 the fair is the accumulation of nearly a year’s worth of studying and working with each individual project.

The historic Nisland Fairgrounds becomes a beehive of activity each August as scores of beef, sheep, swine, rabbits, goats, bunnies and chickens (to name a few of the menagerie that shows up). There are toddlers and teens carrying water buckets and feed buckets, burdened with armloads of hay and dragging halters.

The sound of hair clippers resonates throughout the grounds as touchups are given at the last minute to the groomed and primped animals. Bleats and baas greet visitors amid the din of laughter.

The Nisland Fairgrounds is located near the Belle Fourche River. The historic pavilion was built in 1921 and has been the home of Open Class Exhibits including flowers, quilts, canned goods and photos. Other historic buildings sit on the grounds that include the grandstand (no longer in use), a groundskeeper’s house and several other wood buildings that house 4-H exhibits and livestock. The fairgrounds were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

Some of the highlights of the fair, besides showing off their livestock projects, have youngsters scrambling for a lamb in the Catch a Sheep contest, attending a dance, or taking part in a youth rodeo.

Some may even take part in the Bum Lamb Dress Up Contest or the Talent Show.

Adults and kids alike enjoy watching the tractor pull, listening to the Belle Fourche Cowboy Band, and eating at the free barbecue. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

county fair

Black Hills Pioneer

County Fair BB

Q

aDAM HURLBU

By Betty Bruner

Comfortable Food Comfortable Price Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Large Menu Selection Daily Home Cooked Specials

See us for all your auto maintenance needs!

BURGER • STEAKS • SOUPS • SALADS GREAT DESSERTS & PIES

• Parts • Accessories • Wash & Wax • Fluids & Chemicals S. Hwy 85 & 34 Intersection Belle Fourche, SD

605.892.4430

Open Mon.-Sat. 5:30am-9pm • Sun. 6am-8pm

.

Belle Fourche • 52

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All Car Rally cruises into 26th year in Belle Fourche

SONA O’

CONNEL

L/BLACK

HILLS PIO

NEER

aren’t something I like, they’re something I do. I always have a car project going,” said Schwender.

This year’s Rally schedule of events will include a small car show preview, a street dance, block party, and people’s choice award will also be part of the Friday night’s events.

During the main Show-N-Shine event on Saturday, food vendors and games will be available to the public, along with vendors and, of course, the cars. Trophies will be awarded for each class in the show, including first, second and third prize in each category, as well as the Iris Holst/ Faye Kennedy Best of Show trophy, which will be awarded to one car overall.

Classes in the Rally will include: pre-1950; 1950-1959; 1960-1963; 1964-1966; 19671969; 1970-1979; 1980-1989; 1990-1999; 2000-2004; 2005-current; trucks, vans, SUVs, and off-road pre-1980; trucks, vans, SUVs, and off-road 1981-current; street

ream!

r lover’s d

Classic ca

HEATHER MURSCHEL/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

.

Belle Fourche • 53

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rods; low riders, tuners, imports; Rat Rods, unfinished, work in progress; and motorcycles. All classes will include both stock and custom vehicles.

New to this year’s Rally, the street rod class and low rider class will be separated.

Schwender explained that having the two categories together wasn’t working well, “The two together just didn’t fit well.

Separating them will make it more fair to the participants.”

Registration for the rally runs from 8-10 a.m. on June 15. Pre-registration costs $20, and registration the day of the show is $25.

For more information on the All Car Rally, go to its Facebook page or call Schwender at (605) 892-5980 and leave a message. Due to problems with the website, pre-registration for this year’s Rally will be done only with paper entries. Look for Rally fliers advertising the event to be displayed at local businesses.

all car rally

The 26th annual Center of the Nation All Car Rally is set for June 14 and 15.

The event, featuring cars from more than a dozen different categories and over 60 years of auto history, will offer a variety of events at both Scott Peterson Motors and Herrmann Park in Belle Fourche.

Taking the driver’s seat after co-chairing the event last year, Shane Schwender is the All Car Rally president this year.

Schwender has been involved with the Rally in various ways for several years and he and the event have a unique commonality, “The All Car Rally, oddly enough, is as old as I am.” His father, William (Bill) Schwender helped judge the event in the early 90’s. “Cars are how my dad raised his family, doing body work for 38 years. Cars

Get to Know Us! , demographics & resources Source: http://factfinder.census.gov

Belle Fourche (pronounced Bell Foosh)

Demographics:

Education:

County Seat of Butte County

Belle Fourche School District 9-1 723-3355 1 high school (9-12) 1 middle school (5-8) 2 elementary schools (PK-4) 1 alternative school

Elevation: 3,022 feet

Health Care:

incorporated on April 20, 1903

Belle Fourche Regional Medical Clinic 2200 13th Ave., 605-723-8970

Mountain time zone Zip code: 57717

Housing:

Butte County Health Nurse 2398 5th Ave. Ste. 102, 605-892-2523

Climate:

Belle Fourche Senior Citizens Center 828 Kingsbury St., 605-892-6285

Annual Precip: 18.0 in./yr Average Low Temp: 33.1˚ F Average HIgh Temp: 62.0˚ F

Country Place Senior Living 10905 Sourdough Rd., 605-723-3000

Population: 5,594 (2010)

Unofficial population as of July 1, 2011: 5,675 Median Age: 36.1 Years Median Income: $41,014 Cost of Living Index: 86.8

Sunpointe Senior Estates 2200 13th Ave., 605-892-3333

Are you looking for a place to rent?

Do you need someone to manage your residential or commercial real estate?

COMMUNITY RESOURCE DIRECTORY CITY OF BELLE FOURCHE:

Airport 10970 Airport Rd ........................ 605-892-6345 Bureau of Land Management ................. 605-892-7000

Reese Property Management Professional property management for your residential and commercial needs.

Dispatch 830 6th ....................................... 605-892-2737 Engineer Dept 511 6th ....................................... 605-892-3006 Fax ............................................... 605-723-0897

www.ReeseMgt.com

Finance 511 6th ........................................ 605-892-2494 Fax ............................................... 605-892-2784

Mark Reese 605-569-6761

Landfill Scale House, 183 N 8th .............. 605-892-3530 Baler Building .............................. 605-723-0485

Office: 605-892-3663 markreese@blackhills.com

Shop 516 Faulk .................................... 605-892-3414 Fax .............................................. 605-723-0145

619 5th Avenue Belle Fourche, SD 57717 Fax: 605-892-7797

Water Office 511 6th ........................................ 605-892-2674 After Hours .................................. 605-892-2737

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Belle Fourche • 54

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US GOVERNMENT OFFICES: Butte Conservation ...................... 605-892-3368 Bureau of Land Managment ........ 605-892-7000 FSA Ag Credit Team .................... 605-892-3367 South Dakota ONE Call ........... 1-800-781-7474 South Dakota Licensing ........... 1-800-952-3696 Drivers License Renewals every Tuesday at the Community Hall .... 605-892-2008 Dept. of Natural Resources ......... 1-800-GET-DENR

BUTTE COUNTY OFFICES: Auditor ........................................ 605-892-4485 Dir. of Equalization (Assessor)....... 605-892-3950 Emergency Management ........... 605-723-0900 Extension Office ........................... 605-892-3371 Highway Office ........................... 605-892-4414 Highway Shop ............................ 605-892-3180 Register of Deeds ......................... 605-892-2912 States Attorney ............................ 605-892-3337 Treasurer ..................................... 605-892-4456 Veterans Services Office .............. 605-892-4205

STATE OFFICES: Clerk of Courts ............................. 605-892-2516 Highway Shop ............................ 605-892-2610 Dept. of Transportation Office .... 605-892-2872

Emergency: 911

Butte County Republican Women Pat Main, 605-892-3736

Electricity Black Hills Power, 605-723-2460 Butte Electric Co-op, 605-456-2494

Belle Fourche Volunteer Fire Department Mark Hespe, Chief 605 National St., 605-892-6237

Butte Lawrence County Fair Board 605-892-4740

Water and Sanitation Pickup City of Belle Fourche, 605-892-2494 RSI, 605-723-7723

Organizations & Public Offices:

Utilities:

Natural Gas Co. Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., 1-800-MDU-FAST

Financial Institutions: 3 banks, 2 credit unions

Community Facilities:

Public Library, 905 5th Ave., 605-892-4407 Post Office, 804 State St., 605-892-2815 Senior Citizen’s Center Tri-State Museum Community Hall Dick Bowman Memorial Hall Churches: (13) Protestant; (1) Catholic Landfill Mon.-Fri. 7am-4pm RV Dump Station in between Chamber and City Hall Cemetery Office, 605-892-3735 Pine Slope Cemetary - Hwy 34 St. Paul’s Cemetary - Hwy 34 Riverside Cemetary - Mona Rd. off E. National St. Belle Fourche Ministerial Association Compassion Cupboard, 605 6th Ave., 605-892-3402 Tues. 9am-Noon, Thurs. 2pm-6pm To reserve a room at the Belle Fourche Area Community Center, BFACC Pool, the Community Hall or the Dick Bowman Memorial Hall call 605-892-2467, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday

Recreation Facilities:

9 city parks and Roundup Rodeo Arena 2 tennis courts Softball/baseball & soccer complex Public ice skating rink State Park, bike path Disc Golf Herrmann Park Band Shell Ampitheatre Recreation Center swimming pool, walking track, weight room, wading pool, 2 water slides, 2 basetball courts, 2 racquetball courts, cardio workout room, conference rooms, theatre

Government:

City Mayor, 8-member City Council County 5 Commissioners Belle Fourche Police Department Rob Hansen, Police Chief 1010 8th Ave., 605-892-4354 7 Officers, 1 Lieutenant 3 Corporals Fred Lamphere, County Sheriff 605-892-3324 4 Deputies

Butte/Meade County Housing Sturgis, SD 57785, 605-347-3384

AAU Wrestling Tyler Bickerdyke, 60-723-7780

Center of the Nation Business Association Stacey Raisanen, 605-892-0900

American Legion 605-569-0746

Center of the Nation Concert Association Lorraine Klingler, 605-892-3602 Buy tickets online at

American Legion Auxiliary 605-641-7043

centerofthenationconcerts.org

Artemis House/Victims of Violence Intervention Teri Royer, 605-642-7825 Spearfish, SD 57783

Center of the Nation Sportsman’s Club Rick Walton, 605-892-4964 Department of Social Services 605-892-2731

Badlands Early Head Start 605-723-8837 Belle Fourche All-Nighter Softball Tournament For more information call 605-641-1687

NAJA Shriners 4091 Sturgis Rd., Rapid City, 57702 605-342-3402

Belle Fourche Cowboy Band Tim Speidel, 605-892-2930 bfcowboyband.com

najashriners.com

Belle Fourche Girls Softball Association Kerri Juelfs, 605-645-9030 Belle Fourche Legion Baseball Post 32 Paul Griemse, 605-892-6047 Belle Fourche Lion’s Club John Cooper, 605-723-4698

Northern Black Hills Association of Realtors Brandy Purcell, 605-722-0181 nbhrealtor.com

Northern Hills Area United Way 605-343-5872 unitedwayblackhills.org

Belle Fourche Ministerial Association/Compassion Cupboard Del Neumeister, 605-892-3402 Belle Fourche National Guard Vanessa Powles, 605-642-6424 Belle Fourche Northern Lights Lions Club Joyce Drabek, 605-892-4082 Belle Fourche Soccer Association Susie Manning, bfsoccerboard@gmail.com Belle Fourche Youth Baseball Dwight Gubbrud, Secretary, 605-892-2011 Black Hills Buckles & Bows Square Dance Club 605-642-3919 blackhillsdosido.org

Black Hills Area Community Foundation 605-718-0112 BHACF.com

Boy Scouts - Troop 252 Scoutmaster: Randy, 605-645-9892 www.troop252bf.org

Butte/Lawrence County 4-H Butte County Extension Office, 605-892-3371 Butte County Historical Society Eleanor Marousek, 605-892-2507 Butte County National Guard 842nd 605-892-4346

Belle Fourche • 55

Girl Scouts - Dakota Horizons Marsha Frericks, 1-800-658-3391 140 N. St., Rapid City, SD Loyal Order of Moose 605-892-3121

Belle Fourche Arts Council Louise Reade, 605-892-3600

.

Center of the Nation All Car Rally Shane Schwender, 605-892-5980

,

Parents Who Care Judy Kling, 605-892-2246 PeeWee and Flag Football Sonia Ribordy, 605-210-1326 Chasity Crago, 605-892-5459 Shooting Stars Toastmasters Lonnie Keyser 605-723-7887 South Dakota State High School Rodeo Finals Committee 605-892-2306 South Dakota Retailers Association 1-800-658-5545 320 E. Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501 sdra.org

Tri-State Museum Foundation 605-723-1200 VFW 605-892-6047 Women of the Moose 605-723-6931

community information

Volunteer Ambulance 605 6th Ave., 605-892-2254

With Midcontinent Communications,

®

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2013 Belle Fourche Guide 8” x 5”

Join the family! > 11 Convenient Locations

> Worldwide Network of ATMs > FREE e-Banking

bhfcu.com

642.8161 SPEARFISH

|

RAPID CITY

|

CHEYENNE RIVER

.

Belle Fourche • 56

,

|

CUSTER

|

HOT SPRINGS

|

WALL

Belle Fourche School District 9-1 Mission statement

Belle Fourche Central Office

Belle Fourche HIGH SCHOOL

2305 13th Ave. Belle Fourche 605-723-3355

Home of the Belle Fourche Broncs Grades 9-12

North Park Elementary School

2305 13th Ave. Belle Fourche 605-723-3350

Elementary Grades K-4 1816 Valley Drive Belle Fourche 605-723-3382

Grades 5-8

Co-Curricular Activities Wrestling, Boys/Girls Golf, Boys/Girls Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Track, Choir, Band/Pep Band, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Dance, Fall Musical, Oral Interpretation, One-Act Play, Spring Play

1302 Ziebach St. Belle Fourche 605-723-3367

Belle Fourche education connection

Pat Deering, Principal Pat.Deering@k12.sd.us Beginning & Dismissal Times: 8:00 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.

Belle Fourche middle School

Kevin Smidt, Principal Kevin.Smidt@k12.sd.us Beginning & Dismissal Times: 7:55 a.m. - 3:43 p.m.

DENNIS KNUCKLES/BLACK HILLS PIONEER

South Park Elementary School

Alternative Calendar Calendar includes both four and five-day school weeks.

The calendar currently averages one five-day school week per month with more five-day weeks in the first semester.

(Alternative School) 2315 Dakota Ave. Lower Level Belle Fourche 605-723-0955

NEER

Beginning & Dismissal Times: 8:10 a.m. - 3:10 p.m.

Beginning & Dismissal Times: 7:50 a.m. - 3:37 p.m.

7 class periods

Mathew Raba, Principal Mathew.Raba@k12.sd.us

HILLS PIO

Pat Deering, Principal Pat.Deering@k12.sd.us

Mathew Raba, Principal Mathew.Raba@k12.sd.us

ES/BLACK

29 North 6th Ave. Belle Fourche 605-723-3379

KNUCKL

For more information go to www.bellefourche.k12.sd.us

Go Broncs

!

.

Belle Fourche • 57

,

DENNIS

Elementary Grades K-4

school

We, the members of the Belle Fourche community, are committed to building a learning community and ensuring all learners equal opportunity for an excellent education program that results in learners who are responsible and accountable, who value lifelong learning and know how to learn; and who are capable of succeeding in a changing society.

.

Belle Fourche • 58

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Belle Fourche churches BLACK HILLS GOSPEL ASSEMBLY Sunday: 10 a.m. & 6 p.m. Worship

CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER 2020 Vista St. 605-892-4767 Paul Howard, Senior Pastor Clay Conry, Youth Pastor

Sunday: 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Worship 9:30 a.m. Fellowship/Sunday School

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS 1105 Todd St. 605-892-3700 Derrick Jones, Bishop

Sunday: 9 a.m. Sacrament Meeting 10 a.m. Sunday School

connection church 613 6th Ave.

Sunday: 6 p.m. Worship

LANDMARK MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

902 Lawrence St. 605-723-6899 Andy Anderson, Pastor

2.2 miles east on Hwy. 34 605-723-1092

Sunday: 9 a.m. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship

Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship

FIRST BAPTIST Church

Northern hills church of christ

Sunday: 9:15 a.m. Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Worship

Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Bible Class Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Worship

5 miles south of Belle Fourche on Hwy 85 605-642-7167 Jerry Savage, Minister

807 8th Ave. 605-892-4178 Tim Smith, Pastor

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL church

ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL church

Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Worship 9:30 a.m. Summer Worship

Sunday: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist

Johovah’s witnesses

1100 Stanley St. 605-723-3923 Jeff M. Otterman, Pastor

806 6th Ave. 605-892-2446 The Rev. Evelyn Weaver The Rev. Sandy Williams

717 Jackson St. 605-892-3402 Del Neumeister, Pastor

ST. JAMES LUTHERAN

23 5th Ave. 605-892-4820

ST. PAUL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

834 6th Ave. 605-723-3226 Msgr. Michael Woster, Pastor Father Tyler Dennis, Associate Pastor Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Mass 5 p.m. Spanish Mass every 2nd Sunday

SUMMIT OPEN BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

7th & Summit 605-892-4630 Pastor Rick & Diane Brennan Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship 11 a.m. Kids’ Church

UNITED METHODIST church 1804 7th Ave. 605-892-2405 Martin Earl, Pastor

Sunday Worship Services: 10:30 a.m. Sept.-May 9:30 a.m. June-Aug.

Saturday: 5 p.m. Worship Sunday: 10:15 a.m. Worship

Emmanuel Baptist Church 902 Lawrence St. Belle Fourche, SD 57717 To know Jesus Christ, to grow in Christ, and to make Him known to all people.

No matter the season, we remain committed to providing plumbing, heating and cooling solutions that keep you and your family comfortable year-round.

Pastor Andy Anderson 605-210-1492 ebcbf@yahoo.com www.ebcbf.org

New construction, remodeling & service.

Residential • Commercial• Industrial

Everyone is Welcome!

Wednesday Prayer Group 6:00 p.m.

Sunday School 9:00 a.m. • Worship 10:00 a.m. .

Belle Fourche • 59

,

worship

1/2 mile east on Hwy. 34 605-892-3558 Kenny Riley, Pastor

EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH

s d i K ral r o C

Color this Cowboy!

Crossword Puzzle ACROSS 2. Famous bucking horse ridden by only 1 man (1 word) 7. (Answer to 1 down) is held during what holiday (3 words) 8. Located next to the museum is the “(1 word)” Johnny Spaulding Cabin 9. Belle Fourche was a rendezvous point during the 1800s for (1 word) 10. Belle Fourche is French for (2 words) DOWN 1. Oldest outdoor rodeo originally started to raise funds during World War I (3 words) 3. Surrounding the monument (4 down) is the (3 words) 4. A granite 21-by-40 foot compass rose marks this monument (4 words) 5. Belle Fourche Reservoir is home to what popular fish (1 word) 6. A member of what famous gang attempted to rob the Butte County Bank (4 words) ANSWERS: 1. Black Hills Roundup 2. Tipperary 3. Avenue of Flags 4. Center of the Nation 5. Walleye 6. Hole in the Wall 7. Fourth of July 8. Buckskin 9. Trappers 10. Beautiful Fork

Out Standing in His Field Can you help this farmer reach his plow?

Remember when your local service station was all about service? We do.

• Window Wash • Oil Check • Washer Fluid Check • Tire Pressure Check For Service, Call 605-892-9181 ASE Certified Master Mechanic

TRUCK RENTALS

South Side 625 7th Ave., Downtown Belle Fourche Shortcuts® by Jeff Harris

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Belle Fourche • 60

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Pull the Wool Over Your Eyes

Can you spot all six differences between these two scenes?

GAME ANSWERS: 1. Poster is smaller.

2. Blindfold is different. 3. Arm is moved.

4. Tail is missing. 5. Bell is lower. 6. Handle is missing.

Shortcuts® by Jeff Harris

Word Search

ALL CAR RALLY BEAUTIFUL FORK BENTONITE BRONCS CATTLE CENTER OF THE NATION COWBOY COWBOY BAND FAIR JOHNNY SPAULDING CABIN ORMAN

PARROT RAILROAD RIVER WALK RODEO ROUNDUP SETH BULLOCK SOL STAR THE FORKS TIPPERARY WOOL

Sudoku

Serving South Dakota & Wyoming

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Belle Fourche • 61

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Belle Fourche

DISTANCE TO:

SOUTH DAKOTA

Black Hills Attractions

Spearfish Canyon................... 15 Devils Tower........................... 72 Mt. Rushmore........................ 83 Crazy Horse.......................... 117 Custer State Park.................. 112 Black Hills National Forest..... 20

to Spearfish

4

Nearby Cities

11

Spearfish, SD.......................... 14 Deadwood, SD........................ 28 Rapid City, SD........................ 61 Sioux Falls, SD...................... 405 Gillette, WY.......................... 103 Sheridan, WY....................... 205 Dickinson, ND..................... 194 Bismarck, ND....................... 293 Billings, MT.......................... 263 Denver, CO.......................... 405

Belle Fourche dining

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2

3

BELLE INN

2511 5th Ave. 605-892-4430

to St. Onge, SD

5

610 5th Ave. 605-892-4298

Boomba bar & grill

branding iron steakhouse & social club

CBH Deli & Subway

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108765 US Hwy 85 605-720-2946

Bob’s café

518 National St. 605-892-3012 4

13

6

7

8

10

11

hardee’s

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Belle Fourche • 62

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14

Subway

15

taco johns

patty’s place cafe & coffee shop

pizza hut 1819 5th Ave. 605-892-2671

stadium sports grill 818 5th Ave. 605-723-9521

Belle Fourche Country Club

1405 5th Ave. 605-723-0099

2504 5th Ave. 605-892-6170

19079 US Hwy. 85 605-892-2503

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mulligans South Hwy 85 605-892-3472

dairy queen 208 Pine St. 605-723-7222

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16 North 5th Ave. 605-892-2270

china garden 614 5th Ave. 605-892-3888

jumpin’ jack’s family restaurant

1400 Mill St. 605-892-4020

1401 Mill St. 605-892-6436 16

the green bean coffeehouse 710 State St. 605-723-0760

city map

to Wyoming

4

10

10

to Montana

8 1 3

15

7 12

14

6

13

11 3

6

9

2

12

5

1

5

to Buffalo, SD

8

16

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to Rocky Point Recreation Area

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Belle Fourche lodging

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ACE Motel

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109 6th Ave. 605-892-2265

americinn lodge & suites

crowcreekguestranch.com

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2312 Dakota Ave. 605-892-0900

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7

17816 Prairie Winds Ln. 605-892-6961

acemotelinbelle.com

2

crow creek guest ranch

kings inn

playground campground 1010 State St. 605-723-6874

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9

518 National St. 605-892-2691

922 Harding St. 605-892-2521

418 9th Ave. 605-892-6446

the bunkhouse

motel 6

scoot inn

2519 5th Ave. 605-892-2634

riversidecamp-rvpark.com

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1815 5th Ave. 605-892-6663 motel6.com

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Belle Fourche • 63

3 Miles W US Hwy. 34 605-892-2660 scootinn.com

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sunsetmotelofbelle.com

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riverside campground

kingsinnsouthdakota.com

sunset motel & rv park 19022 US Hwy. 85 605-892-2508

reid motel

americinn.com

6

11

super 8 motel

501 National St. 605-892-3361 super8.com 13

wyatt’s hideaway campground 11144 SD Hwy. 34 605-892-0600

BH Roundup & PRCA Rodeo Ticket Sales Headquarters Buy tickets online at blackhillsroundup.com

415 5th Ave • Belle Fourche, SD • 605-892-2676 member@bellefourchechamber.org centerofthenationmonument.org bellefourchechamber.org

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