In the summer of 1993, the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology rented an exhibit entitled “BREAK THROUGH: Fight for Freedom at the Berlin Wall.” This exhibit stimulated great local interest. Upon discovering that a few Berlin Wall segments still existed, several people proposed that Rapid City, in the shadow of Mt. Rushmore, would be a good setting for such a display.

Through the efforts of a local committee and the generous contribution of two local benefactors, two tank traps and two wall segments were shipped to Rapid City where they are now on exhibit in Memorial Park southwest of the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, located on Mt. Rushmore Road. Dedication of the exhibit including interpretive material took place on October 5, 1996.

Placed within easy access of the downtown business center, it is hoped that many will visit the site in Memorial Park. Young people and adults are encouraged to read the interpretive materials and consider the ideals of freedom and democracy. This exhibit is intended to provide an inspiration to us all.