Days of '76 Museum
18 76th Drive, Deadwood, South Dakota
The Days of '76 Museum displays a collection of pioneer memorabilia that commemorates the first settlers of the Dakota Territory. Deadwood’s annual Days of ’76 celebration began in 1920 as a way to honor the region’s 1876 gold rush and pioneers; the museum preserves and displays the festival’s memorabilia all year round.
The Days of ’76 Museum features horse-drawn wagons, carriages, firearms, clothing, and American Indian artifacts. Learn about the pioneers who arrived in the Black Hills in 1876, see displays about local settler’s relationships with Buffalo Bill Cody, and view historical artifacts. Take a self-guided tour of the exhibits and visit the neighboring rodeo grounds, or time your visit to coincide with the annual Days of ’76 celebration to get fully immersed in Deadwood’s history.
The museum is a popular attraction for history buffs.
Save money by purchasing a combo pass to the Days of ’76 Museum and Historic Adams House.
Allow yourself 1–2 hours to explore the museum.
The museum is wheelchair accessible, and there is an on-site gift shop.
The museum is located outside of Deadwood on Crescent Drive and can be reached by car or on foot from many downtown attractions. Take US-14 Alternative East for 1 mile (half a kilometer), turn right onto 76th Drive, then turn left onto Crescent Drive.
The museum is open all year round, but hours vary seasonally. To see the Days of ’76 rodeo and celebrations, visit during the last week of July. Dates vary annually, so check the event schedule before traveling.
Deadwood’s annual Days of ’76 rodeo has been named Rodeo of the Year 18 times by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. The celebration offers a parade and five days of rodeo action, including steer roping, barrel racing, and a rodeo queen competition. The festival site includes a campground next to Whitewood Creek, where miners panned for gold.
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