Experience The History Of Deadwood At Adams Museum

The Adams Museum was founded in Deadwood, South Dakota in 1930 by pioneer businessman W.E. Adams. It is the oldest history museum in the Black Hills. The purpose of the museum is to preserve and display the history and culture of the Black Hills.

While exploring the museum you will learn about many of the legendary characters of the Black Hills area including Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Potato Creek Johnny, Seth Bullock and Deadwood Dick. Studio portraits and personal belongings of these historical figures are on display.

Many interesting artifacts can also be found within the walls of this building including:

• Potato Creek Johnny’s 7.346 ounce gold nugget
• A rare plesiosaur fossil (marine reptile)
• The Thoen Stone
• American illustrator N.C. Wyeth’s pencil sketch drawing of Wild Bill Hickok
• Interactive games including an augmented reality sandbox and life-sized puzzles
• A picture made from human hair.
• W.E. Adams’ love letters
• Lakota bead and quill work
• There’s even a two-faced calf.

Besides learning about the infamous people who called Deadwood home, you will also learn about the natural history of the area. Displays discuss the geology and paleontology of the Black Hills forest including water, weather and flowers.

An exhibit titled Risky Business discusses the gambling, prostitution and crime the city was known for. They even have a door on display from one of the actual bordellos that operated in the city.

This is a great museum to learn everything you need to know about the history of the city of Deadwood. All the exhibits are detailed and well displayed. There are so many cool artifacts inside you’ll have a hard time picking a favorite piece.

On a side note, if you are participating in the #WildBeChallenge there are a ton of opportunities for selfies in here (click the link for more information).

All levels are wheelchair accessible and handicapped bathrooms are available. A small gift shop is located on the premises as well.