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Sturgis, South Dakota: Mailman Scalped by Indians Here

A decent-size obelisk, erected in 1932, marks the spot where Charles "Red" Nolin was killed and scalped by Indians in 1876.

Address:
Harmon St., Sturgis, SD
Directions:
South end of town. I-90 exit 32. Drive north of Junction Ave. for two blocks. You'll see the monument on the right, at the corner of Junction Ave. and Harmon St.
Admission:
Free
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Charles Nolin, Pony Mail Carrier.

Monument to a Scalped Pony Rider

Charles "Red" Nolin was a 24-year old pony mail carrier who was ambushed, killed, and scalped by Indians in 1876 while carrying mail to Deadwood on the Sidney-Deadwood trail. A monument stands at the spot where he was killed and temporarily buried.

[Gerald D Massey, 07/31/2012]

According to the monument's accompanying historical marker, "He had promised his mother... that this would be his last ride." Nearby Deadman Creek and Deadman Mountain were named in honor of dead Red.


Nearby Offbeat Places

Motorcycle Museum and Hall of FameMotorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, Sturgis, SD - < 1 mi.
Statue of the Superfast CyclistStatue of the Superfast Cyclist, Sturgis, SD - < 1 mi.
Large 44 MagnumLarge 44 Magnum, Sturgis, SD - 1 mi.
In the region:
Celebrity Hotel: Relics on Display, Deadwood, SD - 11 mi.

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