Where is Mount Rushmore? Check Facts and Significance

Jul 8, 2025, 07:20 EDT

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a colossal structure that stands in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It commemorates four key presidents of the United States. This renowned American Mount Rushmore represents the origin, growth, progress, and preservation of the United States, attracting millions of visitors to learn more about its history and significance.

Mount Rushmore is a national memorial dedicated to four 4 presidents and is location in Black Hills of South Dakota, near Keystone.
Mount Rushmore is a national memorial dedicated to four 4 presidents and is location in Black Hills of South Dakota, near Keystone.

Mount Rushmore is one of the most important national memorials. A massive sculpture has been cut into the granite face of a mountain. The memorial is also known as the 'Shrine of Democracy' since it represents American democracy and national pride. The mountain is at an elevation of 5,725 feet (1,745 meters), and was named in 1885 after Charles E. Rushmore, a New York lawyer. It was designated in 1925 and dedicated in 1927. The memorial spans over 2 square miles (5 square kilometers), with each head approximately 60 feet (18 meters) tall. Read on to know more about where Mount Rushmore is, its significance and the presidents on it.

Where is Mount Rushmore?

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, near Keystone. This landmark monument is a focal point of the Black Hills region, which is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rich history. The monument sits 5,725 feet above sea level.  Its precise coordinates situate it in southwestern South Dakota, making it a popular site for visitors to the state and the surrounding Midwest region.

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Mount Rushmore National Memorial Overview

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a colossal tribute to four pivotal figures in American history, representing the nation's journey from its founding to its development.

Detail

Description

Mount Rushmore Location

Black Hills, near Keystone, South Dakota

Who is on Mount Rushmore?

George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theordore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln

Height of Heads

Each head is approximately 60 feet (18 meters) tall.

Construction Period

1927 to 1941 (14 years), led by sculptor Gutzon Borglum.

Method

90% of the carving was done using dynamite.

Cost

Approximately $989,992.32 (equivalent to over $17 million in 2020 dollars).

Annual Visitors

Over 2 million visitors annually.

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What is the Significance of Mount Rushmore? 

Mount Rushmore National Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of American democracy and national unity. It serves as a monumental commemoration of four pivotal U.S. presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln—who represent the nation's birth, growth, development, and preservation. This iconic sculpture's significance lies in its powerful visual tribute to these leaders' contributions and the ideals they embodied for the United States.

Who is on Mount Rushmore?

Mount Rushmore presidents include four pivotal figures chosen to symbolise the first 150 years of American history:

  • George Washington represents the birth of the nation as its first president and military leader during the Revolution.

  • Thomas Jefferson symbolises the growth and expansion of the United States, notably through the Louisiana Purchase.

  • Theodore Roosevelt embodies the development of the nation, recognized for his role in conservation, progressive reforms, and the Panama Canal.

  • Abraham Lincolnrepresents the preservation of the United States during the Civil War and the abolition of slavery.

These Mount Rushmore presidents were selected by the sculptor Gutzon Borglum and represent key eras and ideals of American democracy, making the Mount of Rushmore a lasting visual history lesson.

Conclusion

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is more than just a massive carving; it's a profound symbol of American history and ideals. Its striking Mount Rushmore Location in the Black Hills of South Dakota draws millions, eager to witness the faces of its four Mount Rushmore presidents. This iconic American Mount Rushmore represents the nation's journey, from its founding to its preservation and development. Its significance as a tribute to democracy and a testament to monumental human endeavor ensures its enduring place as a national treasure.

Alisha Louis
Alisha Louis

Content Writer

    Alisha Louis is a US Content Specialist with a Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) graduate degree. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she specializes in covering trending news and educational developments across the United States. Her work combines journalistic precision with engaging narratives, making complex topics accessible and relevant for a diverse audience. Dedicated to delivering timely and trustworthy content, Alisha brings a fresh, insightful perspective to every piece she writes.

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    FAQs

    • Why is Mount Rushmore called the ‘Shrine of Democracy’?
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      Mount Rushmore is called “Shrine of Democracy’ as it is a symbol of American democracy and national pride, carved with 4 key presidents who symbolised: birth, growth, development and preservation of the United States. 
    • Who is on Mount Rushmore?
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      Mount Rushmore is a national memorial commemorating four key presidents of the United States. The Mount Rushmore presidents include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.
    • Where is Mount Rushmore National Memorial? 
      +
      The Mount of Rushmore National Memorial is located in Black Hills of South Dakota, near Keystone. 

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