The Future of Crazy Horse Mountain

Korczak's detailed, long-range plans for Crazy Horse Memorial are incorporated into this painting showing how the nonprofit humanitarian project will look in the future when its major goals are accomplished.

The 563-foot-high mountain carving-in-the-round will dominate the horizon. A poem written by Korczak will be carved on the mountain in letters three feet tall. The multi-storied, 350-foot diameter, hogan-style Indian Museum of North America will be across the reflecting pool from the mountain.

The American Indian University and Medical Training Center, with its circular dormitories, will rise on either side of the Avenue of the Chiefs. The avenue will be lined with sculptural portraits of famous Native Americans.

Visitors will be able to drive around the spring-fed lake to the other side of the colossal Crazy Horse sculpture in the round. The recreational facilities reflect Korczak's great love of sports and his desire to encourage athletic activity.

This illustration by artist Gene Christopherson is based on the 220-page master plan for Crazy Horse. In the foreground is the visitor complex as it appears today with more than 80 rooms. The existing complex humbly started with Korczak's Army surplus tent in 1947.