Since the Revolutionary War was fought to free the colonies
from the rule of a Monarch, it is surprising that the U.S.A. has so many
palaces. Of course, the Governor’s Palaces in Williamsburg, Virginia, and New
Bern, North Carolina, are left over from the British reign. The palaces in
Hawaii are vestiges of the days the Hawaiian royal family ruled the islands. And
Palace of the Governors in Santa Fe, New Mexico was originally constructed in
the early 17th century as Spain's seat of government for what is today the
American Southwest.
One of the most unique American palaces is located in
Mitchell, South Dakota.
In 1892, the “World’s Only Corn Palace” was established on
the city’s Main Street as a gathering place for locals and visitors at the
annual fall festival celebrating the end of the growing season and the harvest.
The venue hosted stage entertainment, and became so popular
that a new Palace was built in 1905. When this new building was outgrown, it
was replaced by a third Palace, which was completed in 1921. This is the Palace
that stands today. Later, in the 1930’s the exterior was restored to the
original Moorish style, with minarets and kiosks.
Mitchell still hosts the annual fall festival, but it also serves
as a venue for basketball tournaments, local high school events and commercial shows
and exhibits.
This unique structure, decorated with naturally-colored
corns, other grains, and native grasses, draws half a million tourists each
year.
The murals on the exterior are changed each year. The ears
of corn are sliced in half lengthwise and then nailed into place by hand in the
pre-drawn designs. Approximately 325,00 ears of corn are used, with each ear
having 4-5 nails to hold it in place.
The theme for this year is “Salute to the Military.” In
addition to the murals on the front of the building, a series of huge panels
graces the side wall.
The detail in the
designs is mind-boggling, given the number and variety of colors in the ears of
corn that are required. Here are a couple of examples.
Inside the Palace there is an entry and lobby with displays
and exhibits. On the second floor is a gallery displaying the works of Oscar
Howe, the artist who was the longest-running mural designer.
It is often said that “place” can become a character in a
novel, as important as the protagonist(s). The “World’s Only Corn Palace” is
certainly a fascinating place with a great deal of character. If you’re in the
area, it’s a unique and interesting destination.
Please comment with a fascinating place you have visited or somewhere that pleasantly surprised you.
Please comment with a fascinating place you have visited or somewhere that pleasantly surprised you.
Source material: Handouts from the Corn Palace and tourist guides to Mitchell, South Dakota.
