Keystone in the Past

Keystone, South Dakota in the Past

Keystone, South Dakota, nestled in the picturesque Black Hills, holds historical significance due to its connection to the Ingalls family, particularly Carrie Ingalls Swanzey and her sister, Mary Ingalls. Carrie moved to Keystone in 1911 to work at the local newspaper, The Keystone Recorder. During her time in Keystone, she met and married David Swanzey, a prominent figure in the community who is credited with naming the iconic Mount Rushmore in the 1880s.

The early 20th century was a period of growth and change for Keystone. The town thrived due to its burgeoning gold mining industry, attracting pioneers and entrepreneurs like the Swanzey family. The community was tight-knit, with residents working together to build a prosperous and vibrant town in the midst of the rugged Black Hills landscape.

Carrie Ingalls Swanzey played an active role in the community, both professionally and socially. As a typesetter for The Keystone Recorder, she contributed to documenting the town’s history and growth. Her marriage to David Swanzey further solidified her place in the community, as the couple became an integral part of Keystone’s social fabric.

Following the death of their mother, Mary Ingalls also moved to Keystone to live with Carrie and David. The sisters supported each other during this challenging time, forging an even stronger bond. Mary’s presence in Keystone added another layer to the Ingalls family connection to the town, making it an important location for fans of the Little House series.

Laura Ingalls Wilder, the famous author and sister of Carrie and Mary, visited Keystone twice during the 1930s. These visits served to strengthen the family ties to the area and provided Laura with a firsthand experience of the community that had welcomed her sisters. The stories and memories from these visits undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the renowned author.

Keystone, South Dakota, during the early 20th century, was a thriving community shaped by the gold mining industry and the pioneering spirit of its residents, including Carrie Ingalls Swanzey and her sister Mary Ingalls. The town’s history is intertwined with the Ingalls family, making it an essential destination for fans of Laura Ingalls Wilder and the Little House series.