We the People: Presidents' City Project

A Unique Celebration of American History in Rapid City

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary next year, a special focus on the heart of America has begun. This monthly feature highlights some of the most iconic elements that define the spirit of the nation, starting with a unique attraction right here in the Black Hills. The City of Presidents Project has become a beloved fixture in downtown Rapid City, drawing visitors and preserving a piece of presidential history.

The project was born from a dream more than 25 years ago. In 2000, when the initiative was first announced, founder Don Perdue expressed his vision, stating, “I think it’s a good idea. There’s a lot of support for it. It’s not a tax burden at all to the residents of Rapid City, which is a first.” His idea came to life after he saw people gathering around a statue of Abraham Lincoln in the city. Alongside Dallerie Davis, Perdue worked to bring this concept to reality.

Laurie Sutterer, the manager of Visit Rapid City visitor services, shared the story behind the project. She explained, “Don Perdue actually saw a visitor taking a picture with a bronze statue that was in front of the Alex Johnson Hotel in 2000, called the Seated Lincoln. He got the idea when he saw that, that it would be great if all 40 of the presidents at the time would be on the streets. So he started the project then.”

Over the years, the vision has expanded significantly. What began as a plan to showcase 40 presidents has grown into a collection of 44 statues. These statues stretch from 4th Street to 9th Street on Main and Saint Joe Streets. The goal of the project is to educate the public while also encouraging tourism and supporting local businesses.

Sutterer noted, “You wouldn’t believe how many people come in to get a map of the presidents and as they’re going around looking for all the presidents, doing of course, our wonderful scavenger hunt too. They also stop into the stores and browse and do some shopping, which is great for the downtown area.”

During the winter months, the sculptures take on an additional purpose. They serve as a place where people can leave warm clothing for those in need, adding a humanitarian aspect to the project.

The artists involved in the City of Presidents Project are either local or have strong ties to the region. Jim Maher of Spearfish has already created a dozen statues. For Maher, the project is more than just art—it's a way to connect with his hometown.

Maher shared, “I’m just honored to be a part of it, especially since I grew up in Rapid City. It’s my hometown I guess. As an artist, that’s something that’s important, to have your work mean something to people.”

One of the biggest challenges in creating these statues is deciding how to portray each president. Maher explained, “I try to find out as much as I can about the person, what they were like, their personality and maybe something they were famous for or maybe something that people wouldn’t know.” Some presidents were easy to depict, such as Harry Truman with the famous “Dewey defeats Truman” newspaper headline.

Looking ahead, the project continues to evolve. Jim Maher has already been chosen to sculpt Joe Biden, marking another step in the ongoing journey of the City of Presidents Project. This ever-growing collection serves as a tribute to American history and a vibrant part of the community.