FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  May 16, 2007
CONTACT:  Jay D. Vogt, (605) 773-3458, jay.vogt@state.sd.us

State Historical Society hosting ‘See South Dakota Week’ May 22

PIERRE, SD – The South Dakota State Historical Society will be hosting “See South Dakota Week” on Tuesday, May 22, at the Cultural Heritage Center.

The museum and archives will both be open extended hours on the 22^nd – from 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. The day’s special-event schedule is as follows:

n      10 a.m. – “How to Trace Your Family Roots,” by State Historical Society archivist Virginia Hanson, speaking about the genealogical resources available at the archives.

n      1 p.m. – “Archaeological Discoveries:  The Fort Pierre Chouteau,” by Mike Fosha with the State Historical Society’s archaeology office in Rapid City, sharing information about the artifacts that were uncovered and what the team learned during excavations of the historic site near Fort Pierre.

n      3 p.m. – “South Dakota Places After School Program,” by Ronette Rumpca of the museum staff, featuring educational activities on historic place throughout the state and after-school snacks for elementary school children.

n      5:30 p.m. – Presentation and book signing by Tom Domek, author of Rain Shadow:  A Travelers Guide to the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, presented by the South Dakota State Historical Society Press.

“We invite people to take this opportunity to visit the Cultural Heritage Center and learn more about South Dakota’s history and heritage,” said Jay D. Vogt, director of the State Historical Society.

The programs, located in the Education Room, are free. Regular admission fees will apply to the museum gallery. Call (605) 773-6000 for more information.