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It has been called a "shrine" of democracy, and it is! One does not escape the spiritual quality of the experience here at Mt. Rushmore. It wakens response in the hearts of the most complacent of citizens, lights the faces of the most cynical of observers, and quickens the step of the world weary. Why should this be so? What is it about these faces carved in cold granite that can evoke such feelings of love of country and the sheer joy of being an American...? Pride? Yes Pride that this was an accomplishment born, planned, and created in the minds and by the hands of Americans for Americans. Pride in the four great presidents whose faces reflect the dignity of the heritage that belongs to Americans. Pride in knowing that the sons and daughters of generations uncountable will stand here in contemplation, just as we have. So call it a shrine, monument, memorial -- what you will -- as you turn away to once again enter the heedless world, there is a fullness of spirit and a lightening of the heart that were not there before. There on the mountain the sculptor has spoken eloquently with his art, an eloquence that says simply, "This is what it means to be an American!" Lincoln Borglum (son of Gutzon Borglum)
"...Beauty is as undefinable as spirit, and yet it is the dominating force in civilization." Gutzon Borglum
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