Project #17 - Sturgis Rally
Sturgis has always been a wild place, defined by its early history of being a lawless, rough-and-tumble frontier camp, starting with the Great Sioux Nation, Great Western Expansion, and the Rally,
In 1878, a temporary military camp was established in the area that would later become Sturgis. It was initially referred to as Camp Sturgis and was located northeast of Fort Meade, along Spring Creek (now known as Bear Butte Creek). The camp was part of broader U.S. Army efforts during the Black Hills gold rush period, when troops were assigned to protect miners and settlers traveling into the region. Units such as the 7th Cavalry Regiment operated in the Black Hills area during this time to maintain order and escort civilian traffic.
The area that would become Sturgis developed rapidly during the late 1870s as settlers, traders, and vendors established a supply and trading hub during the Black Hills gold rush. It briefly functioned as a tent settlement with merchants, saloons, and supply stands serving both civilians and nearby military personnel. The camp earned the informal nickname “Scooptown,” reportedly because merchants quickly “scooped up” military pay from soldiers stationed in the region.
Long before the roar of motorcycles filled its streets, Sturgis was a dusty frontier town where oxen, wagons, cowboys, and stagecoaches moved travelers and supplies through the region.
In 1938, the first rally was held, marking the beginning of what would become the legendary event known today. It was organized by the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club, who continue to maintain and operate the rally’s racing and stunt grounds. The original event was called the “Black Hills Motor Classic.” Over time, it evolved into the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
The event was canceled only once in its history, in 1942, due to World War II and gasoline rationing. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has since grown into one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world. In peak years, attendance has exceeded 500,000 people, with tens of thousands gathering in and around Sturgis during the roughly 10-day event.
Its one of the best places to experience world-class concerts and riding alongside people from all over the world. Several nearby attractions can easily be visited on a day ride, including Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Devils Tower, and Deadwood.
Fun Nuggets:
Below is how I determine the locations for these shots: by consulting 1800s fire insurance maps from the Library of Congress, then verifying the locations block by block by comparing historic businesses with current buildings. As you can imagine, there have been many changes over the years in both businesses and city planning layouts.
