Adams Museum
About This Museum
Everyone comes to Deadwood for the legends of Wild Bill and Calamity Jane, but you leave the Adams Museum realizing the town's true story is so much richer. It’s a fantastic joint venture that connects the polished exhibits in the main history museum with the incredibly preserved 1892 home of Harris Franklin, one of Deadwood's founding fathers. Walking from a display on the Chinese community that helped build the town straight into Franklin's actual parlor makes history feel immediate and tangible. You don't just learn about Deadwood's evolution from lawless mining camp to a civilized community; you literally cross the street and step inside it.
Collection Highlights
Don't miss the 'Thoen Stone,' a haunting sandstone message left by a lost prospector, and marvel at the sheer opulence of the Hearst-Sunshine Engine, a massive piece of mining machinery. The real showstopper, however, is touring Harris Franklin's meticulously restored home, where original wallpapers and family belongings make the Gilded Age feel alive.
Visitor Information
It's brilliantly easy to visit both the main museum at 54 Sherman and the historic house right across the street with one ticket. Just be sure to check their seasonal hours online before you go, as they can vary.
Architecture & Building
The main museum is housed in a handsome, stately stone building that feels like a classic civic institution, while the Harris Franklin House is a stunning example of a late-Victorian home, complete with a charming porch and intricate woodwork.
Contact & Location
Address: Adams Museum, 54, Sherman Street, Chinatown, Deadwood, Lawrence County, South Dakota, 57732, United States
Phone: +1 605-578-1714
Website: Visit Website
