The Rushmore German Club traces its roots  back to the founding of the Rushmore International Club in 1972 in Rapid City, South Dakota. The inception of this club emerged from the aftermath of the infamous flood that claimed numerous lives and devastated area homes and businesses. During June 9-10, 1972, the city was hosting the 'Dakota Days Band Festival,' featuring marching bands from Germany. In the wake of the calamity, a plea was made to the local German-American community to host the displaced German band members.

 

As life gradually resumed its course in Rapid City, the host families forged strong bonds of friendship, gathering monthly for Kaffeesitzung (Coffee Meetings). This close-knit group eventually formalized into the Rushmore International Club, evolving into the present-day Rushmore German Club.

 

In 1982, a significant chapter in the club's history unfolded as it established an  association with the Central States Fair. Since then, SommerFest, affectionately known as “The German Tent”, has become a favorite tradition for thousands of Fair attendees.