Nestled in the Black Hills region just east of Rapid City, South Dakota, lies a unique point of interest fondly regarded as one of the most hallowed grounds in the Wild West- The Mt. Moriah Cemetery. It is most famously known for serving as the final resting place of several notable icons of the American Wild West era, including James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok and Martha "Calamity Jane" Canary. Its panoramic beauty, constituted of sprawling pine forests and magnificent mountain ranges in the backdrop, makes it a preferred destination for visitors seeking to steep themselves in the rich cultural history of the US while basking in the marvelous landscapes that South Dakota has to offer.
Dating back to 1878, Mt. Moriah Cemetery spans over an impressive 60 acres of land, purchased by the city from Sidney and Addie Collins. The cemetery was initially established as a venue to relocate decease members from the Ingelside Cemetery, which was located at the bottom of a high ore vein and became untenable due to mining requirements. Today, Mt. Moriah stands as a testimony to a bevy of trailblazers, pioneers, and heroes who helped shape the west.
The biggest highlight of the Mt. Moriah Cemetery is, indeed, its illustrious roster of residents, featuring interments dating back to the 1870s. The burial site of James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok, a popular gunslinger, draws ardent enthusiasts of the era, while the final resting place of Martha "Calamity Jane" Canary, a frontier woman and professional scout, is another famed landmark within the cemetery. The site also houses the "Boot Hill", an area dedicated to the burials of several anonymous inhabitants who didn't have the means for a proper burial. Another area of the cemetery, "Jewish Hill", commemorates the lives of the Jewish community members from the late 19th century.
Moreover, nature lovers will be entranced by Mt. Moriah's setting amidst the native pine and oak forests, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Black Hills. Visitors can walk the winding trails through the cemetery, immersing themselves in the poignant beauty of the landscape as well as the compelling history etched in the tombstones. Various informative plaques placed throughout the cemetery explain the notable figures resting there, creating an intriguing walk through the heritage of the Wild West era.
Summing up, the Mt. Moriah Cemetery is not only a point of interest for history buffs, but also a must-visit destination for those inspired by the resilience and audacity of the Wild West icons. Its serene natural beauty and poignant resonance of the tales of old add a significant layer of intrigue to your Rapid City exploration. Let the tranquil whispers of the wind, the compelling tales from the past, and the astonishing beauty of the Black Hills landscape take you on a journey back in time, experiencing the grandeur of the era up, close, and personal.
