There is a an awe inspiring statue in Chamberlain South Dakota, Dignity of Earth and Sky. This sculpture is found at the rest area on the eastern bluffs of the Missouri River. It is a tribute to the rich Native American Culture in South Dakota. A tribute that states the Native cultures are alive and standing with dignity.
This tribute was sculpted by South Dakotan Dale Lamphere. He used three Native American models ages 14, 29 and 55 to inspire the face of Dignity. The dress was fashioned to resemble dress from the 1850s. She is holding a star quilt with over 100 blue stainless steel diamonds that flutter in the wind. This unique piece of art is lit by LED lighting and is visible from Interstate 90 day and night.
The statue was a gift to the residents of South Dakota. Norm and Eunabel McKie of Rapid City donated one million dollars to make this reality. They announced it in 2014 in honor of the states 125th anniversary of statehood.
It was installed in 2016 and is a popular stop for travelers of I-90. She is high on the bluff and overlooks Chamberlain and Missouri River. You can see the historic Double Barrel Bridge from here.
You can locate the statue between exits 263 and 265 on Interstate 90. The rest area has off ramps accessible by both eastbound and westbound traffic.
