Black Elk Peak: A History by Bradley Saum

The history of Black Elk Peak--previously known as Hinhan Kaga and, more recently, as Harney Peak--remained segmented and scattered throughout the shadows of antiquity, until now. The natural landmark's namesake, Black Elk, experienced his great vision here, solidifying his status as a Sioux holy man. Obstructed by the insurmountable granite, General Custer and his horse nearly summited during the 1874 expedition. On that granite, sculptor Gutzon Borglum made the decision to carve a grand monument into the face of nearby Mount Rushmore. Prior to serving as the first Pine Ridge Reservation Indian agent and then mayor of Rapid City, Valentine McGillycuddy documented his ascent to the peak in 1875, where his ashes would come to rest.

Paperback
176 pages
ISBN 9781439660508

About the author: Bradley Saum is an avid traveler and natural history enthusiast with a passion for writing and photography. He has developed an appreciation for the natural, cultural and historical gems around the country having served as a park ranger with the National Park Service, South Dakota State Parks and Ohio State Parks. A graduate of the University of Dayton, Bradley has diverse work experiences ranging from wildland firefighting to federal law enforcement and senior level management positions with Fortune 500 companies. Bradley is a volunteer alumnus of the Student Conservation Association and also served as an outdoor education instructor. Originally from Ohia, Bradley has lived in many different areas of the country and has traveled the United States extensively. The Black Hills of South Dakota have always been a special place, and capturing the true essence of Black Elk Peak provides an opportunity for Bradley to share his appreciation for this unique and sacred ground. Bradley has also had the opportunity to travel internationally, visiting fifteen countries across the globe. Highlights include seeing a Bengal tiger in India, walking atop of the Great Wall of China and experiencing and interacting with all the various cultures so uniquely different.

Image description: The cover features a photograph of Black Elk Peak at the top. The title and subtitle are printed beneath that. Coming from the bottom is an up-close picture of the Black Elk Peak, and the author's name is printed in a blue banner at the bottom.