Francis Roush Collection

Content Description

This collection consists of one black and white 5x7 photograph of the Roush family and photocopied typed pages of fifteen family history. Those pictured in the photograph include Roush family members Francis, Hattie, Alice, Elsie, Edward, Edna, Pearl and Clifford taken in 1915. Francis Marion Roush was born on June 6, 1870 at Eldon, Iowa. Hattie Hyde Roush was born on August 14, 1869 near Fairbanks, Iowa. Francis filed a homestead in 1892. Francis and Hattie married on October 31, 1894. Francis led a expedition of men from the Smithsonian Institute through the Badlands in search of fossils in 1897. They joined his brother Tommy and his wife Lula in Rapid City in 1906. The brothers started a livery stable first, which later turned into the first automobile dealership in Rapid City. Francis started the first bowling alley in Rapid City and also ran a hardware store. Francis Roush died on January 20, 1917 in Rapid City. Hattie died on December 1, 1952 in Rapid City. The stories include the adventures of Francis and his brother Tommy, Hattie’s childhood, the wedding day of Francis and Hattie, Francis’ experience with the Smithsonian Institute, and how Francis witnessed Wounded Knee.

Acquisition Type

Gift

Restrictions Apply

No