Don Clifford (1921–2019)

This little book is a treat, but its value is enhanced by the fact that I bought it at Mount Rushmore from Nick Clifford and his wife Carolyn. They are charming people and a joy to visit with.

As in the title, the book is a compilation of answers to questions by Mount Rushmore visitors that the author fielded over the years.

The book includes many photos of Nick and others associated with Mount Rushmore, including the famous sculptor, Gutzon Borglum.

There is no index, but because of its small size and descriptive table of contents, the book is easy to navigate. This is a fun book and I am glad to have it in my library.… (más)

Nick is a former driller and winch-man who worked for Gutzon and Lincoln Borlgum on the carving of Mount Rushmore. The book is a simple question and answer format consisting of the the kind of questions many people ask about such a project. Nothing new and profound here, but interesting and informative.

I met Mr. Clifford in the gift shop near the Memorial. He is a sweet and dryly witty little man - he is quite small and slight - with a smile and a word for everyone. He signed this book for me, and his wife tucked in a small "baseball card" that he also signed. In his unassuming way, he is a connection to history, and I enjoyed meeting him.… (más)