History on the Lawn – Dr. Valentine McGillycuddy: Frontier Doctor and Renaissance Man
DEADWOOD – Deadwood History, Inc. and the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission will host a presentation by Les Nuckles at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Historic Adams House, 22 Van Buren Street, Deadwood. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members. In case of rain, the lecture will be moved to the Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center (HARCC).
Step back in time with reenactor and historian Les Nuckles as he brings to life the incredible story of Dr. Valentine Trant McGillycuddy in this captivating first-person presentation. Experience the rugged charm of the late 1800s as Nuckles, portraying Dr. McGillycuddy, shares vivid memories with warmth, humor, and personal insight. Hear fascinating tales of the doctor’s adventures and his encounters with legendary figures like Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, George Armstrong Custer, Calamity Jane, Red Cloud, Crazy Horse, and more.
Les Nuckles has called the Black Hills home since 2013, dividing his time between Deadwood, Custer, and Hot Springs. With a deep love of history, Nuckles earned his Bachelor’s degree from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree from Missouri State University. Since 2020, he has combined his passion for both theatre and history by performing with the Deadwood Alive troupe. Since 2015, Nuckles has brought the larger-than-life figure of Dr. Valentine McGillycuddy to audiences through engaging, first-person performances that make the doctor’s real-life stories and adventures fun and informative for all ages.
The presentation is co-sponsored by the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission, Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation, Deadwood History, Inc., Deadwood Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Black Hills Pioneer, Outlaw Square, and the Saloon No. 10.
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Deadwood History, Inc. preserves and presents the history of Deadwood and the Black Hills through exceptional places, interactive exhibits, and engaging events.
Adams Museum, Days of ’76 Museum, Historic Adams House, Homestake Adams
Research and Cultural Center, The Brothel Deadwood, and Fassbender Photographic Collection.