Legends and Lore Along the Lewis and Clark Trail
Legend of the Stone Idol
In the fall of 1804, near present-day Pollock, South Dakota, Lewis and Clark encountered a powerful story shared by the Arikara people. They were told of three mysterious stone formations—two shaped like humans and one like a dog—believed to be the remnants of a tragic love story.
According to Arikara legend, the stones represent two lovers who were forbidden to marry, and their loyal dog who refused to leave their side. All three were turned to stone, immortalized on the prairie as a symbol of love and loyalty. Clark noted in his journal that local tribes honored the site with offerings.
Nearby, explore a replica Arikara earth lodge—just like those Lewis and Clark encountered along the Missouri River in 1804.
Visit the Klein Museum to step back in time. ⬇️🔗
The historic marker is located about 1 mile south and 2 miles west of Pollock, near the West Pollock Recreation Area.
In 2001, a stone believed to be part of this legend was unearthed in a nearby farmer’s field—historians continue to study this intriguing find.
Explore some of the most beautiful and rugged
areas in America
LewisandClarkTrail.com