May is Archaeology & Historic Preservation Month in South Dakota.
Historic Preservation Month has been celebrated in South Dakota since it was established at the national level in 1973. The state added archaeology in 2005 to recognize it as a partner in historic preservation.
Ted Spencer, State Historic Preservation Officer, says South Dakota has identified thousands of archaeological and historical sites, historic buildings and landscapes throughout the state. He says public appreciation and understanding are the foundation of preserving the state’s past for future generations.
The State Historical Society would like to know what your favorite South Dakota historic site is, which will be shared on the Society’s Historic Preservation Facebook page. Send an email to shpo@state.sd.us or tag your own Facebook post using @southdakotashpo.
The 2021 theme for the month is “It’s in Our Bones.” With good stewardship of our historic properties, they can remain viable for many years.
Once again, the State Historical Society sponsored a statewide essay contest for all students in the fourth grade, the year in which South Dakota history is typically taught. The purpose was to enable students to achieve a better appreciation of their historic resources, the stories they tell, and why they should be maintained.
Students were asked to write a 100-400-word essay about any South Dakota location that is at least 50 years old, why it is a favorite place for them, and why it should be saved. It did not need to be a historic site. Entries were judged on quality of writing, content and theme, and originality of thought.
There were 176 entries, from 25 towns across the state.
The first-place winner was Marlee Hayes from McIntosh School in McIntosh. Marlee’s essay was entitled “Bullhead Powwow Grounds.” She won a $100 cash prize and a one-year family membership to the South Dakota State Historical Society valued at $50.
Wilkes Flatten from Jefferson Elementary School in Watertown took second place. His essay was entitled “This Place Matters: The Crocker Hills.” He won a $75 cash prize and a one-year family membership to the State Historical Society.
Winning third place with a story called “Living in the Country” was Zada Storm from Lennox Elementary School in Lennox. She won a $50 cash prize and a one-year family membership to the State Historical Society.
A link to the winning essays can be found on the State Historical Society’s website at history.sd.gov/preservation/archhpmonth.aspx.
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