After reading about Stone Mountain near Atlanta, Georgia, Robinson was inspired to create a sculpture project at the Needles, to have several granite pillars carved as likenesses of famous people. He hoped that such a sculpture would attract greater tourism to South Dakota.
Inspired by his study of Stone Mountain in Georgia, Robinson envisioned a monumental sculpture at the Needles, comprising multiple granite pillars sculpted in likeness of prominent figures. He expected this installation to boost tourism in South Dakota.