Cecil Gideon (C.C.)

Rode with Borglum to find Mt. Rushmore. Helped design the second studio. First concessioner at the old studio.

The greatest road adventure came about with the need for a road to the developing Mount Rushmore. The road with stunning vistas and tunnels would become known as Iron Mountain Road.

Of all his accomplishments, Gideon will probably be remembered best for the part he played in Custer State Park’s development. He was part superintendent, game keeper, warden, herdsman, fence tender, public and community relations director, and a property procurement director. Many of the animals seen today, such as the wild turkeys, mountain goats, mountain sheep and antelope, were introduced to the park by Gideon.