Beyond Mining

Due to financial difficulties, the South Dakota Mining Company stopped paying the McDonalds. However, the McDonalds had found that people were interested in seeing this unusual cave. In 1890, the first cave tours were conducted.

Partners With the Stablers

Soon, the McDonalds began looking for a partner to help build the business. In 1892, John Stabler, saw the financial value of the cave and bought an interest in the Wonderful Wind Cave Improvement Company. His sons and daughter, George, Charles, and Katie, helped lead tours and explore the cave.

Making a Name for the Place

John Stabler knew that Hot Springs was a popular tourist destination and money could be made by promoting the cave. They invited famous people to visit. Governor Lee of South Dakota and William Jennings Bryan were guests. Bryan reported that he “was enthusiastic over the beauty of the cave ” These visits were advertised in the local newspapers and brought attention to the cave.

William Jennings Bryan is the man in the middle of the photo with a child on his lap. Katie Stabler is on the high left. John Stabler is the lower left.

Evan’s Plunge of Hot Spring was built in 1890.

Early History of Wind Cave National Park

• The Winds of Wind Cave
• Early Explorations
• The McDonalds Arrive
• Exploring with Alvin
• The Wonderful Wind Cave Improvement Company
• Visiting the Cave
• Publicizing the Cave
• Who Owns the Cave?
• The Feud
• More Court Battles and More Decisions
• A Decision is Made
• A National Park is Created