Well hidden among a thick cover of cottonwood trees, this view from an overlook above the Little Missouri River Valley takes in the town of Medora. The town's only hint of civilization is a tall brick chimney, remnants of the de Mores meat packing plant. The cottonwoods thrive along the river valley, while the remainder of the North Dakota Badlands lack any significant vegetation.
   The town of Medora was founded by a young French nobleman, Marquis de Mores in 1883. Medora was named after his wife, and well financed by his father-in-law, a wealthy New York banker. The young entrepreneur built a meat packing plant, hotel, a row of shops and large home he called Chateau de Mores. Despite his efforts, de Mores' vision withered and the family returned to France just three years later.
   Today's Medora lives on, celebrating the life of their most famous resident, Teddy Roosevelt. Medora is the welcome center for Theodore Roosevelt National Park, furnishing lodging, restaurants and shopping. Recently enjoying its 50th anniversary, the Burning Hills Amphitheater presents the Medora musical. The open-air musical revue was originally intended to show just two performances. But, the Greatest Show in the West continues to this day, entertaining more than three million summer guests over the past 50 years.

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