A historic Deadwood landmark is officially back in private hands following a restoration effort led by the city.
Deadwood officials have transferred ownership of the iconic Wild Bill Bar sign to the bar’s owners, marking the completion of a restoration and relocation project years in the making.
Historic Preservation Officer Kevin Kuchenbecker says the sign marks the site where Wild Bill Hickok was killed 150 years ago after being shot by Jack McCall. The city acquired the historic neon sign more than a decade ago after it had been moved from its original Main Street location.
The city restored the sign, including repairs to the paint, metalwork and neon tubing, before returning it to its historic location. Under an agreement with owners Marguerite and Richard Oleson, the sign has now been transferred back to the business.
The agreement requires the sign to remain with the building, receive regular maintenance and preserve its historic character.
City officials say the landmark sign, which was built before 1940, remains protected under Deadwood’s historic preservation ordinances.
