Nine Secrets of Mount Rushmore

Secret 1: The Dreamer's Vision

The initial concept wasn't about immortalizing presidents at all. Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor behind Mount Rushmore, originally envisioned carving depictions of famous Western heroes like Buffalo Bill Cody and explorers like Lewis and Clark. This initial idea was scrapped in favor of honoring presidents who played significant roles in American history and development.

Secret 2: The Hall of Records

Borglum's ambitions extended beyond simply carving the faces. He planned a hidden "Hall of Records" behind Abraham Lincoln's head. This vault, accessible via a staircase, was intended to house important documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, providing a time capsule for future civilizations. Sadly, Borglum's death in 1941 interrupted the project, but a scaled-down version was eventually completed in 1998. A titanium vault containing porcelain enamel panels with texts related to the history of Mount Rushmore and the US was placed in the incomplete hall.

Secret 3: The Presidential Picks

The selection of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt was deliberate and symbolic. Washington was chosen to represent the birth of the nation; Jefferson, its philosophical foundation; Lincoln, its preservation; and Roosevelt, its expansion and industrial progress. Each president's contribution reflected a crucial era in American history.

Secret 4: Dynamite's Dominance

Contrary to common belief, the carving wasn't primarily done with chisels. Over 90% of the mountain's rock was removed using dynamite! Skilled blasters carefully detonated small charges to shape the mountain, removing approximately 450,000 tons of rock. This process allowed for faster progress and more efficient removal of large quantities of granite.

Secret 5: Honeycomb Hazard

The granite of Mount Rushmore isn't entirely solid. It contains veins of quartz and pockets of minerals, creating a "honeycomb" structure in some areas. This presented a significant challenge during construction, as the unstable rock could crumble unexpectedly. Workers had to carefully inspect and reinforce the mountain to ensure the stability of the carvings.

Secret 6: A Family Affair

Gutzon Borglum didn't work alone. His son, Lincoln Borglum, played a vital role in the project, taking over as chief sculptor after his father's death. Lincoln oversaw the completion of the project, ensuring that his father's vision was brought to fruition. The entire Borglum family dedicated years to the monument's creation.

Secret 7: The Seventh Face Speculation

Throughout the years, there has been considerable speculation about adding a fifth face to Mount Rushmore. Various presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy, have been suggested. However, no additions are planned, as the existing rock formation and environmental concerns pose significant challenges.

Secret 8: Jefferson's Shifting Location

Initially, Thomas Jefferson was intended to be on George Washington's right side. However, due to the poor quality of the rock in that location, the carving was started but then abandoned. Jefferson's face was then carved on Washington's left side, requiring the removal of a large amount of rock and a change in the overall design.

Secret 9: Preservation Efforts

Constant maintenance is crucial to preserving Mount Rushmore for future generations. Cracks in the granite are routinely filled, and the monument is carefully monitored for erosion. These ongoing efforts ensure that the presidential faces remain a powerful symbol of American history for centuries to come.

Quick Facts Summary Table

Here's a handy table summarizing some of the key facts discussed:

Exploring these nine secrets offers a deeper understanding of the artistry, ambition, and challenges involved in creating Mount Rushmore. It's more than just a monument; it's a testament to American history, perseverance, and the enduring power of a visionary's dream.