Crystal Cave
 | |
| Location | Mining Gulch |
|---|---|
| No. of Buildings | 1 |
| Owner | J. G Kieth |
| Entry | |
| Adult Entry | 10¢ ($3 in 2021) |
| Child Entry | 5¢ ($2 in 2021) |
The Crystal Cave was a reproduction of the Crystal Cave in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Before the Fair
The cave was displayed at the Chicago World's fair of 1893. [1]
Description
Over 300,000 pounds of material, crystals, etc., were brought by Keith and Allabaugh [2], who possess the cave, to make this representation. The entrance and interior was covered with crystals.
The artificial cave had seven rooms, passages and was lighted by 100 light bulbs.
The Cleopatra's needle, weighing over half a ton, was displayed, while stalactites and stalagmites fill the cave. The cathedral chimes were also reproduced.
In a showcase are the petrified creatures found in the cave; turtles, fish, serpents and a chambered nautilus.
On souvenir day, crystals were handed out to visitors. [3]
After the Fair
Crystal Cave was officially re-named as Bethlehem Cave in 1957 when ownership was transferred to the Catholic Church. The cave became a monastery and home of Benedictine Monks. The order built the Shrine of the Nativity in the cave entrance. For reasons unknown, the cave was closed in 2004. [4]
See also
Notes
References
- ↑ Custer Weekly Chronicle. 13 Feb. 1904, p. 6.
- ↑ "Show Cave-Bethlehem Cave" Show Cave https://www.showcaves.com/english/usa/showcaves/Bethlehem.html
- ↑ Mary C. Dorris "Mining Gulch at Great World's Fair." Nashville Banner. 21 Sep. 1904, p. 8.
- ↑ "Elk Creek Canyon Canyoneering" SummitPost https://www.summitpost.org/elk-creek-canyon/981235
