In 1876 Deadwood was as loud and lawless as any mining camp in the American West. But amidst the gunfire and dust and profanity stood "Preacher" Smith, a symbol of more peaceful times to come. Reverend Henry Smith was a Methodist minister who held his first Deadwood services at the corner of Main and Gold Streets on Sunday, July 9 1876. Most of his preaching was in the open-air.

    Those who were said it was not uncommon to see Preacher Smith holding the attention of one end of the crowd while at the other end a gambler or salesman shouted at the same motley throng. Smith also preached in a sawdust-floored log house in Custer City and in other Hills camps. He supported himself with part-time jobs.

    The real life legend of Preacher Smith ended on August 20, 1876, when he attempted to walk from Deadwood to Crook City to hold services. As always, he had answered those concerned for his personal safety by saying the Bible would be his protection. Smith had proceeded only a few miles from Deadwood when he was shot by an unknown assassin. He was buried up on Deadwood's "Boot Hill" cemetery, but a monument stands along highway 24-85 at the point where the 49 year old religious man died.

10/01/03