Deadwood and Sturgis

Our friend, Tony, made it out to see Sturgis FINALLY. He’s been wanting to do this trip since he retired in 2006. We were so glad that he finally made it and that we were able to join him.
We headed out to Deadwood, (as I said before, all of the towns are hosting bike week)

the town where Wild Bill Hickok was shot and killed.

Saloon Number 10 was the name of the saloon and it was located where we are standing, but when it burned down in a fire, they relocated further up and across the street. Up until the 1980s the area where Saloon Number 10 was located was considered the “Red Light District.” Today, as you can see below, there are mannequins in the windows, dressing it up as it was in the past.

We made it to “Sturgis”
Just in time for lunch. So we dashed over to the Italian Restaurant that opened just the day before. The food was good and reasonable. We told “mama” that Tony had just celebrated a birthday, so she brought him out a muffin, played a song just for him and gave him a big hug and kiss. SHE WAS WONDERFUL!
This is what the traffic looks like coming into town.

This is what one of the main streets looks like in Sturgis most of the time.

It’s hard enough to park a bike here, so don’t even THINK about bringing a car!

As I said before, all of the “locals” are set up for making their year salary during bike week. I think every business who has any property, rents space to vendors. All of the vendors are very friendly and some have more imagination than others, like this Louisiana Griller who has a gator eating lunch on one of his tables.

And of course you have to have a bike wash & showers since most people are tent camping.
Notice there are 2 bike washes & only one shower house! I know what their priorities are!

Even if you aren’t a business in Sturgis, if you own a house, you cash in on the opportunity to make big bucks. The majority of the homes, had tents in their yards, some even had amenities, like pools, swings and bars.
The unique bikes that you see going down the street are what brings people to Sturgis. I thought it was cute the guy with his trailer which included a refrigerator (I’m sure for his beer)

My favorite bike was this “Indian” bike and Bill like the blue one (because it matched his truck).

Everyone’s favorite was the mowercycle below.

But, really, I think this one would be way more comfortable. Yes, it’s a motorcycle!

We went to Sturgis before the crowd got into town. It is amazing how this town turns into a party town almost overnight. Bobby’s brother and sister-in-law, Harry and Theresa, were staying at Buffalo Chip, which is probably the most popular campground, so we just had to take a look. As you can see, it is not quite full yet.
We haven’t been back out there, but I’m sure it is wall-to-wall campers and tents. Not only do they provide facilities, but there are bands and vendors almost 24 hours a day.

Bars are everywhere. Even where there normally isn’t a bar.

Main Street was starting to get busy. Check out Tweetie Bird and Skeleton.

There were already all kinds of vendors set up with unique items. We liked these antique milk jugs with a tractor seat attached. He only brought 600 to sell and was told he needed more. They sell for $350, so we’ll see if he sells out.

And I really thought these doggie carriers were adorable. The Dog Whisperer was also impressed with these.

The “locals” also find a way to cash in on Bike Week. The owner of the pets below I believe may be homeless, but what an act! Yes, that’s a dog, cat and mouse and they travel together!!