Porcupine Butte facts for kids
Porcupine Butte is a special mountain in South Dakota. It's located on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. A "butte" is like a small, flat-topped mountain with steep sides. Porcupine Butte stands tall at about 3,665 feet (which is about 1,117 meters) above sea level.
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What is Porcupine Butte?
Porcupine Butte is a unique landform. It's a type of hill or small mountain with a flat top. It stands out in the landscape of Oglala Lakota County, South Dakota.
Where is it Located?
This butte is found in the southwestern part of South Dakota. It's very close to the town of Wounded Knee, only about 2.3 miles away. It's an important landmark on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
Why is it Called Porcupine Butte?
The name "Porcupine Butte" comes from the trees that grow on its top. These are prickly pine trees, which reminded people of a porcupine's quills. That's how this interesting name came to be!
What Can You Find There?
Porcupine Butte is home to some important facilities. A road called BIA Highway 27, also known as Big Foot Trail, passes right by the butte.
KILI Radio
You can find the broadcast facilities for KILI Radio (90.1 FM) at Porcupine Butte. Their transmit tower is located right on top of the butte. KILI Radio is a well-known station that serves the Lakota community.
Fire Watchtower
There is also a fire watchtower at the very top of Porcupine Butte. This tower helps people spot wildfires from a distance. It plays an important role in keeping the surrounding area safe.
A Sad Day in History
Porcupine Butte is also remembered for a very sad event in history. On December 28, 1890, a group of Lakota led by Spotted Elk (also known as Big Foot) were near Porcupine Butte. They were traveling to join Red Cloud at Pine Ridge.
A part of the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment stopped them. The Lakota people were then taken about 5 miles west to make camp. The next day, December 29, the terrible Wounded Knee Massacre happened. Many people, including women and children, lost their lives. It was a very tragic day in American history.
