DEADWOOD, S.D. (08/02/21) – The City of Deadwood and Deadwood Historic Preservation held a recognition luncheon for Dale Morris and family, owners of Deadwood Mountain Grand Resort on Monday, August 2nd.
The luncheon was to celebrate the donation of a Conservation Easement on approximately five and half acres of land adjacent to the Homestake Mining Company’s Slime Plant, home to Deadwood Mountain Grand. The donation will protect in perpetuity this significant land parcel overlooking historic downtown by never allowing commercial development on the property.
Deadwood Mayor David Ruth presented Morris with a proclamation declaring Monday, August 2nd, Dale Morris Day in Deadwood. The proclamation states that “Dale Morris, owner of Deadwood Mountain Grand believes the recreational and aesthetic opportunities offered by leaving the land in its natural state far outweigh any monetary opportunities from development.”
The Morris family understands the recreational and aesthetic opportunities of leaving the land in its natural state. “We are dedicated to the communities of Deadwood and Lead,” said Zack Morris, Morris’s grandson. “It is only fitting that all who ‘hit the trail’ have full access to the property to enjoy an uninterrupted view of all the hills surrounding the historic district.”
Deadwood’s Historic Preservation Officer, Kevin Kuchenbecker, said the easement will help maintain Deadwood’s historic character for generations to come. “The Historic Preservation Commission has been working for several years to protect the viewshed surrounding the National Historic Landmark. This is a significant step in securing Deadwood’s preservation future.”
Deadwood Mayor Dave Ruth echoes Kuchenbecker’s statement. “The City is extremely thankful to the Morris family’s commitment to Deadwood through the donation of this Conservation Easement which has a lasting, long-term preservation impact.”
In a brief statement following the Mayor’s proclamation, Morris said the donation is a “win-win” for both the community and Deadwood Mountain Grand. He added that he was “humbled” by the designation.
Deadwood Mountain Grand General Manager Susan Kightlinger believes the agreement shows the dedication to community by the Morris family. “Deadwood Mountain Grand is a family-owned business, with a culture that encourages giving back,” said Kightlinger. “We have a commitment to our staff and the community to do what’s right for Deadwood.”
Deadwood Mountain Grand Hotel, a Holiday Inn Resort is the newly restored 1906 Homestake Mining Co. ore processing plant that overlooks Historic Deadwood, which features a 98-room luxury hotel, 210 state-of-the-art casino games, high stakes gaming action, a 2,500 seat entertainment and event center and a multi-level parking garage.
