History of the Custer Stampede
Buffalo Art Auction

The Beginning 

In October 2004, members of the Custer Area Chamber of Commerce and the Custer Area Arts Council joined together to form the Custer Stampede Committee.  The committee's focus was to put together an annual event that would represent our community, involve our growing arts population, and make Custer City a favorite destination point.  The outcome of this vision was a visual art project to be held every year.  The first event was in 2005 when 20 artist transformed 20 life-size fiberglass buffalo into one-of-a-kind works of art.  These masterpieces were then displayed throughout Custer City for the summer/fall months.  The event culminated with the auction, where the highest bidder took their buffalo home to roam in new pastures.  

Custer Stampede Buffalo Art Auction 2006 

The second annual Custer Stampede Event adorned the streets of Custer City with the artwork of twenty juried artists, using the Charlie Russell Museum buffalo form.  In addition to the 20 life-size buffalo, there were also ten tabletop buffalo, all transformed by regional artists and displayed by local businesses. 

Custer Stampede Buffalo Art Auction 2007
A very successful year, the 2007 Stampede Committee opened up a “free form” art category. Artists were able to submit interior and exterior bison art projects ranging from scrimshaw to paintings to outdoor sculptures as well as the life-sized and table top buffalo forms.

 "Bringing the Arts and Custer Together, Creating Growth for All"

 Custer Stampede is a community project for the Custer Area Arts Council

Please send email inquiries to info@custerstampede.com

For questions about the Custer Stampede and other attractions in the area, please contact:

Custer Stampede Buffalo Art Auction
 

549 Mount Rushmore Road

Box 310

Custer, SD 57730

Patty Ressler - Director - (605)-673-5955