What Is the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota?
The Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota, is a unique and iconic building that is redecorated annually with murals made entirely of corn and other grains, serving as a community gathering space and a major tourist attraction. It’s more than just a building; it’s a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage.
A History Rooted in South Dakota Agriculture
The Corn Palace, initially known as the “Corn Belt Exposition,” was born in 1892 as a way to showcase the fertility of South Dakota soil and attract settlers to the region. The original structure was a simple wooden building intended to be temporary. It served its purpose well, however, quickly becoming a point of local pride and an effective marketing tool. This early success led to the construction of a second, larger Corn Palace in 1905. The current and most iconic Corn Palace, the third iteration, was completed in 1921, designed in a Moorish Revival style.
From Expo to Community Hub
Over the years, the Corn Palace has evolved from a simple agricultural exposition into a vibrant community center. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, basketball games, dances, trade shows, and community gatherings. While agriculture remains at the heart of its identity, the Corn Palace now serves as a multi-purpose venue that reflects the diverse interests and activities of the Mitchell community.
The Art of Corn Murals
The most distinctive feature of the Corn Palace is undoubtedly its exterior murals. Each year, a new theme is chosen, and local artists, now assisted by computerized design, create vibrant and intricate designs using different colors of corn, grains, and grasses. The process is meticulous and requires immense skill and attention to detail. Workers painstakingly apply the materials to wooden panels, which are then attached to the building’s exterior.
- Design Selection: A theme is chosen, and artists develop mural designs based on the theme.
- Material Preparation: Corn, grasses, and other grains are harvested and dried.
- Panel Construction: Wooden panels are prepared as the foundation for the murals.
- Application Process: The materials are carefully applied to the panels using nails and glue.
- Installation: The completed panels are attached to the exterior of the Corn Palace.
The Economic Impact
The Corn Palace is a significant driver of tourism in Mitchell and the surrounding area. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, who come to marvel at the unique architecture and the artistry of the corn murals. This influx of tourists generates revenue for local businesses, supports jobs, and contributes to the overall economic vitality of the community.
The Annual Re-Decoration
The annual re-decoration is a major undertaking that requires months of planning and labor. After the harvest, local farmers and volunteers gather the necessary materials. Artists work throughout the year to design and create the new murals. The re-decoration process typically takes place in the late summer and early fall, culminating in a public unveiling ceremony that celebrates the new theme and the artistic achievements of the community. This annual event ensures the Corn Palace remains fresh and relevant, drawing visitors back year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Corn Palace
What types of grains are used in the Corn Palace murals?
The murals primarily utilize different varieties of corn, including sweet corn, field corn, and popcorn, each providing unique colors and textures. In addition to corn, other grains and grasses such as rye, oats, and wheat are also employed to create finer details and add visual interest to the designs.
How long does it take to redecorate the Corn Palace each year?
The entire redecoration process, from design conception to final installation, typically takes around four to five months. The actual application of the corn and grains to the panels is a labor-intensive process that requires a team of workers and volunteers.
How much corn is used in the decorations annually?
Approximately 275,000 ears of corn are used each year to redecorate the Corn Palace. This equates to thousands of bushels of corn grown in the surrounding fields.
What is the history of the Corn Palace’s design style?
The Corn Palace’s architecture is primarily in the Moorish Revival style, characterized by its arches, domes, and decorative elements. This architectural style was chosen in the early 20th century and has remained a consistent feature of the building’s design ever since.
What is the process for selecting the theme of the Corn Palace each year?
The theme is typically chosen by the Corn Palace Committee, often in consultation with local artists and community members. The selection process considers factors such as historical significance, cultural relevance, and the potential for visually stunning murals.
Is there an admission fee to visit the Corn Palace?
Admission to the Corn Palace is generally free, allowing visitors to explore the building’s interior, view the murals, and learn about the history and culture of the region. However, special events or performances held at the Corn Palace may require ticket purchases.
Can you take photographs inside the Corn Palace?
Photography is encouraged inside the Corn Palace. Visitors are welcome to take photos and videos to capture their experience and share them with others.
Are there any tours available of the Corn Palace?
Self-guided tours are available to visitors. Guided tours were discontinued after the COVID pandemic, but might come back in the future. Information about the building and its history is located throughout the building.
What types of events are held at the Corn Palace?
The Corn Palace hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, basketball tournaments, dances, trade shows, and community gatherings. It serves as a versatile venue that caters to diverse interests and activities.
How has the Corn Palace evolved since its creation?
The Corn Palace has evolved from a simple agricultural exposition into a vibrant community center and tourist attraction. While agriculture remains central to its identity, it now serves as a multi-purpose venue that reflects the changing needs and interests of the Mitchell community.
What are some of the biggest challenges in maintaining the Corn Palace?
One of the biggest challenges is the annual re-decoration process, which requires a significant amount of labor, resources, and careful planning. Another challenge is preserving the historical integrity of the building while adapting it to meet the needs of a modern community. The weather, especially moisture, is another consistent challenge.
What makes the Corn Palace such a unique attraction?
The Corn Palace is unique because it combines agricultural heritage, artistic expression, and community spirit in a truly remarkable way. Its annual murals, made entirely of corn and other grains, are a testament to the region’s agricultural abundance and the creative talent of its people, making it a one-of-a-kind destination that captures the imagination of visitors from around the world.