Edward W. Keene (Terms 1956 – 1962; 1964 – 1966 & 1978 – 1984)

Edward W. Keene (June 14, 1910  - April 11, 1992) was a longtime resident, streets commissioner, World War II veteran, fire chief, alderman and Mayor of Deadwood.  Born on June 14, 1910, Keene grew up and graduated from Deadwood High School in 1929.  After graduation Keene became the manager and co-owner of the Pioneer Transfer & Storage Company once located at 134-136 Sherman Street.  In 1934, at the age of 23, Keene became involved in Deadwood politics when he was appointed as the Deadwood Streets Commissioner under Mayor Raymond Ewing.  Keene held this position for eight years before being drafted into the US Army during World War II in March of 1942.  Four months later, Keene married Florence Wagner of Deadwood on July 18, 1942.  During the next three years, Keene and his wife were stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington and he rose to the rank of Sargent before being honorably discharged in 1945.  During his military service, Keene was involved in mountain troop training and developed an interest in downhill skiing.  Upon his return to Deadwood, this interest helped him form the Terry Peak Ski Club and later Terry Peak Ski Resort.

Once back in Deadwood, Keene was appointed as the Deadwood Fire Chief in 1945 and held this position until 1952.  Five years later, Keene was elected Third Ward Alderman in April of 1950.  He held this position until he was elected Mayor of Deadwood in 1956.  Keene served in this capacity on three separate occasions (1956 – 1962; 1964 – 1966; and 1978 – 1984).  Keene died on April 11, 1992 and was buried in Oakridge Municipal Cemetery, just outside the Deadwood city limits.