Annual History Conference

Discussions on the early settlers, and various ethnic groups, who began immigrating to Dakota Territory around 1855, and the variety of reasons for their immigration will be the focus of this year’s annual history conference hosted by the South Dakota State Historical Society. The theme of the conference, coordinated by the State Historical Society Archives, is "Immigration...a New Beginning." The conference is April 17-18 at the Ramkota RiverCentre in Pierre.

The keynote speaker is Dennis Mulligan, a park ranger with the Ellis Island National Monument in New York City. Mulligan has worked with the National Park Service as a Park Guide and Park Ranger since 1998. He performs research, develops, and presents programs intended for all age groups in order to enhance the appreciaton and visitor experience of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Mulligan’s presentation is titled, "In Liberty’s Shadow: Ellis Island Emerges." Friday’s conference speakers include John and Jane Rasmusses of Sisseton with Wayne Knutson of Vermillion, who will reveal stories of Norwegian immigrants. Rose Fosha of Rapid City, an archaeologist for the South Dakota State Historical Society, will discuss the Chinese in Deadwood. Dave Kemp of Sioux Falls will speak on Irish farmers in the west, and Jerry Wilson of Vermillion’s topic will be on immigrant homesteads on the prairie and the effect on the enviroment. Friday evening’s reception will feature live music from the Missouri Valley Fiddlers at the Moasonic Temple in Pierre. Saturday’s events include presentaions by Gary Jerke of Tripp on Germans from Russia, Norman Hofer of Freeman will discuss the migration of Hutterites to South Dakota, Dewaine Alcorn of Lincoln, Nebraska will feature a presentation on genetic genealogy, and Romaine Pesicka of Shelby, Nebraska will close the conference with a discussion of Czechoslovakians in South Dakota.

The Governor’s Awards for History, recognizing individuals, organizations and teachers who have made outstanding contributions to preserving South Dakota history, will be announced at an awards luncheon on Saturday. For more information, call 605-773-6000 or visit www.sdhistory.org for registraion information. the early registration deadline is April 3, 2009.