
1929, Memorial Society
With the help of South Dakota Senator Paul Norbeck's ceaseless campaigning in Washington, on February 25, 1929 Congress established the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society and approved funds for the Society's use to oversee the creation of the Mount Rushmore memorial. Doane Robinson, unfortunately, does not merit sufficient clout in Congressional estimation to warrant a place on the commission, and in solidarity Senator Norbeck likewise refuses to accept a position on the Society. South Dakota Congressman William Williamson accepts a position on the Society, and he serves in the capacities of Secretary, Vice President, and President of the Society over the years of its operation.