FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Oct. 3, 2007
CONTACT:  Chelle Somsen, (605) 773-5521, Chelle.Somsen@state.sd.us

Gov. Rounds declares October “Archives Month”

PIERRE, S.D.—Gov. Mike Rounds has declared October as “Archives Month” in South Dakota.

“We’re doing this to recognize the value of South Dakota’s archives -- at both the state and local levels -- and the many ways their protection of our historical resources enriches our lives,” Gov. Rounds said. “Archival institutions collect, organize, preserve, and make available records that document the history of the state of South Dakota and the plains region for the education and enrichment of present and future generations.”

The theme for Archives Month is “Find your History in South Dakota.” Archives Month is an annual nationwide celebration of historical records and archives.

“Archives Month is a way to acknowledge the value of the historical record, to create awareness and understanding of the functions of an archives, and to publicize the variety of ways archives provide knowledge about the historical and cultural heritage of South Dakota,” said Chelle Somsen, South Dakota State Archivist for the State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center. “Through programs and exhibits we can show the value of the past and how it puts our lives into perspective.”

In honor of Archives Month, the State Archives has several activities planned. All events will be held at the Cultural Heritage Center and are free of charge.

Sunday, Oct. 14, 2 p.m. -- “Pierre Railroad Bridge Construction” This presentation will highlight photographs from the archives collection on the railroad bridge in Pierre. Oct. 14 also is the 100^th anniversary of the construction of the bridge.

Saturday, Oct. 20, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. -- The State Archives will be open an extra Saturday this month in honor of Archives Month.

Sunday, Oct. 21, 2 p.m. -- “Stories, Photographs and History of the Pierre Indian School.” Pierre native Eddie Welch will describe his research on the Pierre Indian School, particularly his research in the archives. His research started in 2003 and has resulted into a master’s thesis on the school.

Sunday, Oct. 28, 2 p.m. -- Film of Oahe Dam construction. The State Archives recently received several films documenting the construction of the dam. Contents of the film include earth work, closing the dam, aerial views, surge tank construction, cement work, and President Kennedy’s speech on Aug. 16, 1962. Jamie Damon of Pierre, the student who wrote to President Kennedy asking him to attend the Oahe Dam dedication, will be at the film showing.

Any organization that holds historical records is invited to use the month of October to increase public awareness about those records and the purpose of the archives. For ideas on how to celebrate Archives Month, please contact the State Archives office at (605) 773-3804 or visit www.sdhistory.org/arc/archivesmonth.