Preservation Thursday: NITA: Hotbed in Deadwood

DEADWOOD – Deadwood History, Inc. and the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission will host a presentation by Justin Koehler at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center (HARCC), 150 Sherman Street, Deadwood. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members. 

Join us for an exclusive screening of Justin Koehler’s powerful documentary, which delves into the fearless story of Nita Celaya and her pivotal role in Deadwood’s infamous 1980 brothel raid. This compelling film uncovers the town’s long-held secret, exploring the tension between tradition, morality, and survival. Through a rare interview and Celaya’s never-before-released 1980 FBI tape, her voice brings this controversial chapter to life. Don’t miss this opportunity for a deeper understanding of Deadwood’s vice. 

Justin Koehler is a South Dakota-based filmmaker whose work has appeared on PBS, History, Discovery, DIY Network, HGTV, and other major networks. His debut documentary, The Buffalo King, reached over 7.3 million homes in two months on PBS, and garnered awards on the film festival circuit.  Koehler’s follow-up documentary, Floating Horses: The Life of Casey Tibbs won Best Documentary at “Oscar’s of the Western Genre” – the 2018 Western Heritage Awards. Floating Horses was selected in over 20 film festivals, winning an award in eight of the festivals.  Koehler is an independent filmmaker and freelance editor, specializes in historical and educational films, working with the U.S. Military, National Park Service, and South Dakota Public Broadcasting. He currently produces content for the South Dakota Department of Human Services.

Preservation Thursday is co-sponsored by the Deadwood Historic Preservation Commission, Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation, Deadwood History, Inc., Deadwood Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, Celebrity Hotel, Deadwood Mountain Grand, Black Hills Pioneer, 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.