United States Congressman William Williamson was the driving force in getting money appropriated from Congress for the construction of the memorial. He was the one who convinced President Coolidge to come visit the Black Hills for a summer vacation in 1927. He also served as a member of the Mount Harney Memorial Society in 1925 until the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society was created by legislation in 1929. He served as secretary, vice-president, and president of the Society. |
Last updated: January 26, 2023