USGS
Bench Mark
"DW 5204"

ca. 1898

Jerry Penry
May 30, 2010

An early example of a late 1890's USGS bench mark. This bench mark, known as "DW 5204", is ironically located along a road known as "Benchmark Road" approximately 15 miles northwest of Rapid City, South Dakota. These types of bench marks were developed by USGS in 1896, so their use was virtually new when the topographic mapping was performed in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. Recovered by Jenny Stukel and Jerry Penry.

Bench Mark "DW 5204" has been both exposed and cleaned by cattle rubbing against it.

A nice view of the cap showing the "DW" stamping. (Lower right quadrant of the center cross mark).

Jerry Penry with the bench mark.

The "Benchmark Road" sign at the west end where it connects with Highway 385.

The original description didn't provide very many clues for future finders.

The approximate location of "DW 5204" along Benchmark Road.

Other Deadwood Datum Bench Marks

© Jerry Penry 2010