Around Town

Historic Custer

In 1876 an expedition led by Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer found gold in French Creek near the present day city of Custer. At the time of the claim, the Black Hills were part of the Great Sioux Reservation and closed to white settlers. However, once the word spread about the gold strike, miners from all over the frontier illegally entered the Black Hills.
 

On August 10, 1875 miners, protecting their claims, drew the boundaries of present day Custer. Once the area was open to white settlements, the town of Custer boomed with miners hoping to strike it rich. But few of them did. There was very little gold in the southern Black Hills and many claims quickly dried up. In 1876, gold was found in the northern hills and most of the residents of Custer moved out of town. Only 14 people remained in the once thriving boom town.
 

Today, Custer is an uncrowded mountain town that is the ideal home base for visitors who want to experience the Black Hills. Ideally located, Custer provides easy access to attractions, outdoor adventure and quiet rejuvenation. But the heart of Custer remains its rich history which you can explore in one of the many area museums or with a walk in our historic downtown.
 

Historic highlights in the nearby area:

• 1881 Courthouse Museum in Custer
• Gordon Stockade near entrance to Custer State Park
• French Creek Recreation area in Custer State Park
• State Game Lodge in Custer State Park
• Four Mile Old West Town in Custer
• Harney Peak Forest Fire Lookout Tower
• Indian Museum of North America @ Crazy Horse Memorial
• Peter Norbeck Visitor Center in Custer State Park