In Deadwood, Thanksgiving assumes a special significance, drawing parallels between the bountiful harvests celebrated during the Gold Rush era and the gratitude expressed on this traditional holiday.

As families gather in our historic town, they reflect not only on the blessings of the present but also on the hardships and perseverance of the prospectors who once sought their fortunes in the Black Hills. The Thanksgiving feast becomes a link between the abundance of the harvest and the resilience of those early pioneers, creating a unique blend of historical reverence and contemporary gratitude in the heart of Deadwood.

While the image of “prospector” probably brings a man to mind for most, women have always played an important role in Deadwood’s history and development. This month we feature a portrait of Mrs. Thomas, also known as Mrs. Prince, taken by C. Kersting of Deadwood, circa 1888-1889. 

We don’t know much about Mrs. Thomas/Prince. Deadwood History Inc.’s archives include a description that says, “Studio portrait of a woman named Mrs. Thomas, better known as Mrs. Prince, who was in Deadwood in 1876. She had two mining claims–one was where the Chicago Northwestern Railroad Depot was located and the other was at the base of McGovern Hill where the Congregational Church once stood. She lived in the Hills until around 1900 when she moved to California.” The source of the information is unknown and unverified.

Her photographer, “C. Kersting” was almost certainly Charles Kersting, a photographer in Deadwood in the 1880s. A Feb. 22, 1884, edition of The Daily Deadwood Pioneer-Times wrote that Kersting had arrived the day before to run the operating room in Geo. W. Scott’s Photograph Gallery. 

He apparently made a good impression as soon as he arrived, because the brief article sings his praises: “From the samples of Mr. Kersting’s work that have been shown us, we would conclude that he is a master of his art, and that Mr. Scott was fortunate in securing such an excellent artist to come here. We predict a prosperous season for Mr. Scott, feeling confident that such work as will henceforth be turned out of his gallery will be appreciated.” 

This style of portrait, or cabinet photo, was wildly popular in the 1880s. It replaced the carte-de-visite, a smaller type of calling card, as the most popular type of portraiture. The larger size allowed people to see more detail in photos. (Check out this website for more details on the history and mechanics of cabinet card photos.)  

Every month, we are partnering with Deadwood History Inc. to feature one of the prospectors who helped shape Deadwood into the amazing place it is today. This month’s photo is part of the Adams Museum Collection, which is just one of the many amazing historic photos and documents they have. Be sure to visit them when you have a chance.

Did you know that First Gold Gaming is aptly named due to the proximity of where gold was initially struck in Deadwood? Featuring miners who formed this region is a symbiotic and fun way to tie into the local culture. After all, we all hope for the same thing – striking it rich. 

Why not come see some of this history for yourself? And if you need a place to stay, First Gold has free on-site parking, the outstanding Horseshoe Restaurant, and a variety of gaming to keep you entertained. Give us a call at 800-274-1876 or visit our website to book your room today. 

We are grateful to live in Deadwood and have the chance to soak in this history, and maybe share some of it with you. No matter where you find yourself this holiday season, Happy Thanksgiving from all of us.

Portrait of Mrs. Thomas, also known as Mrs. Prince, taken by C. Kersting of Deadwood, c. 1888-1889. (Deadwood History, Inc., Adams Museum Collection)