Black Hills History & Museums: Tatanka Story of the Bison

Black Hills South Dakota
> History Museums
> Tatanka Story of the Bison

Tatanka Story of the Bison

Dive into the devastating, yet incredible, history of the story of the bison at this one of a kind museum in Deadwood, South Dakota.

Read More

What can I see and do at the Tatanka Story of the Bison Interpretive Center?

Tatanka: Story of the Bison features a huge life-size sculpture of 14 bison and 3 Native Americans on horseback, as well as a hands-on interpretive center. It tells the story of the 30-60 million bison that once roamed the great plains and the devastating massacre that wiped out all of them, save 1,000.

Many who have recently visited the Great Plains will have stories of watching and tracking the bison, also called buffalo, and known to American Indians as tatanka. It is estimated that 150,000 bison roam the lands of the northern states today, the largest herd of 4,500 found in Yellowstone National Park. Bison have faced an interesting history, however, from being the life source to migrating American Indian tribes to being so frequently and irresponsibly hunted that it is a miracle the creature did not go extinct. Visit Tatanka, the Story of the Bison, where you can learn the history of the buffalo.

Where is it?

It is located along US Highway 85, just one mile north of Deadwood.

When is it open?

It is open 9am to 5pm, from April 3rd through September 30th.

How much does it cost?

  • Adult: $10
  • Seniors (60 and over): $8.50
  • Children (6-12): $5
  • Children (under 6): Free

Who can I call if I have more questions?

Call the Tatanka Story of the Bison Center at 605-584-5678 or visit their website.