Posts for 2024

Keystone, South Dakota: The Black Hills' Playground

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Welcome to Keystone, South Dakota, the ultimate playground in the heart of the Black Hills. This charming town is a haven for adventure seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to experience the stunning beauty of the area, explore the town’s rich history, or simply unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings, this hidden gem offers something for everyone.

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Recharge at Grapes and Grinds: The Black Hills' #1 Coffee Shop

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It’s official! Grapes and Grinds has been ranked Black Hills’ #1 coffee shop by TripAdvisor for its 8th consecutive year and it’s not hard to understand why! Nestled in the heart of Keystone, AKA the Black Hills’ playground, Grapes and Grinds provides an inviting atmosphere for all its visitors. This charming shop is not your average cup of joe. Not only does Grapes and Grinds serve coffee, it serves up a delicious palate of entertainment supplying visitors with a delectable food and wine menu of local favorites as well as an outdoor patio and playground for your littles.

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Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Progress

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Juneteenth, a blend of “June” and “nineteenth”, is a significant day in American history. It commemorates the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing that all slaves were free two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This announcement marked the end of slavery in the United States, a momentous occasion that is celebrated annually as Juneteenth.

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The History of Memorial Day and How Our U.S. Presidents Shaped this Day of Remembrance

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Memorial Day is known as an annual day of remembrance and honor for U.S. military personnel who lost their lives while defending their country. Originally called Decoration Day, this solemn holiday occurs every year on the last Monday of May. From its origins in the aftermath of the Civil War to its evolution as a national event honoring fallen American personnel, Memorial Day embodies a tapestry of historical significance. Join The National Presidential Wax Museum as we delve into Memorial Day’s history and the profound impact U.S. presidents have had in shaping this day of national remembrance.


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Famous Faces, Great Places: 5 People You Didn't Know Are from South Dakota

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Mount Rushmore State is full of beauty and surprises. Although South Dakota is known for its historical figures such as Sitting Bull, Wild Bill Hickock, and Calamity Jane, the great plains have also birthed some notable figures whom we’ve watched on screen today. From renowned TV host Bob Barker to wrestling powerhouse Brock Lesnar, fame is no stranger to this midwestern state. Beyond the iconic monuments and landscapes that grace the Great Plains, South Dakota boasts an array of well-known figures that just might surprise you. Join the National Presidential Wax Museum as we uncover five prominent figures and icons that originated from our great state.

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April Showers Bring Presidential Flowers

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Spring is in full bloom! As gardeners and green thumb enthusiasts prep their outdoor landscapes for a vegetative summer, the occupants of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue have a vibrant season to look forward to. The Presidential Gardens at the White House stand as a testament to the enduring bond between nature and history, curated over centuries to reflect the diverse personalities of our nation’s previous and present leaders. From the iconic Rose Garden, known for its countless historic photographs, to the serene Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, each outdoor space tells a unique story of the beauty and diplomacy of the land. Join us as we journey through centuries of botanical history. 

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Presidential Pranks: April Fools' Day Shenanigans from the White House

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The Oval Office is renowned as a formal space at times filled with diplomats, dignitaries, heads of state, and the leaders of our nation. However, even most regal figures require an ounce of levity here and there. Throughout history, presidents, first ladies, and their administrations have engaged in their fair share of April Fools’ Day antics, often showcasing a lighter side of the White House. Join The National Presidential Wax Museum as we explore some of the most memorable, mischievous pranks performed by our nation’s leaders. 

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Unveiling the Alluring Mystery of the Black Hills feat. 5 Surprising Facts

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The Black Hills of South Dakota represent the heart of the American Midwest and stand to this day as a testament to nature’s awe-inspiring beauty and rich cultural heritage. While renowned for iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park, the region holds a wealth of lesser-known surprises waiting to be discovered. Join us as we unveil five surprising facts about the Black Hills that may just inspire your next adventure. 

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Step Inside The National Presidential Wax Museum: Your Passport to American History in 2024!

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Get ready to teleport back in time! The National Presidential Wax Museum is your gateway to time traveling as you witness some of America’s most pivotal moments in history. We are now open for the 2024 season in Keystone, South Dakota, and are ready for you to visit us and step back in time.  

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Decoding Super Tuesday: What You Need to Know

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Super Tuesday, often dubbed the "SEC Primary" or the "Big Tuesday," is a significant event in American politics. It typically occurs in early March during a presidential election year and involves multiple states holding primary elections or caucuses on the same day. This year, Super Tuesday falls on March 5th, and it carries immense weight in shaping the trajectory of the presidential race.

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Presidents' Day: Tracing the Evolution of This National Holiday

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Presidents’ Day, marked annually on the third Monday of February, stands as a tribute to the leadership, vision, and enduring legacy of America’s presidents. Yet, the journey to this nationally recognized holiday is as rich and diverse as the individuals it honors. From its humble beginnings as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday to its evolution into a day commemorating all U.S. presidents, the history of Presidents’ Day is a fascinating tapestry woven with threads of national identity, historical remembrance, and civic tradition. Join us on a journey through time as we delve into the origins, development, and significance of Presidents’ Day, uncovering the stories and events that shaped it into the revered holiday we know today.

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Presidential Displays of Affection (PDA) on Valentine's Day

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Valentine’s Day is a day designated for your special someone, and affection knows no bounds – even with our national leaders. While the presidency often involves public duties and responsibilities, presidents and first ladies throughout history have found ways to celebrate this day of love with their partners. From heartfelt gestures to private moments, their expressions of affection offer glimpses into the personal lives of those who have held the highest office in the United States.

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Sculpting Nature: Exploring the Rich Sculpture Heritage of the Black Hills, South Dakota

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Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, the Black Hills stand as a testament to nature's sculptural prowess, but it's not just the geological formations that captivate visitors. The Black Hills also boast a remarkable collection of human-made sculptures, seamlessly integrated into the breathtaking landscape.

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An Innovator, Artistic Trailblazer, and Our Founder: Katherine Stubergh Keller “The Madame Tussauds of America”

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In the captivating tapestry of wax’s extensive history, one name emerges as an indelible mark of artistic prowess - Katherine Stubergh Keller. A trailblazing American sculptor, Stubergh pioneered her way into the chronicles of wax history during the 20th century. Stubergh’s work resonates not only as a testament to her skill, but as a vivid reflection of an era. In the decades when flappers and Vaudeville were at their height, luminaries of the time sought the honor of sitting for her, contributing to a legacy that transcends mere sculptures. Her masterpieces grace the silver screen, finding a place of distinction in timeless Hollywood classics such as House of Wax, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, Gone with the Wind, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and many more. Join us as we embark on a journey through the life and legacy of Katherine Stubergh Keller, exploring the empire she built and her founding of The National Presidential Wax Museum in Keystone, South Dakota.

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