Cultural Heritage Center Renovation Update
Most Recent Draft Gallery Design
What does a renovated Cultural Heritage Center look like? The Center built for the statehood centennial in 1989 was a project of enduring value and served the state well for 35 years. A newly renovated center has improved facilities for visitors and staff. The first thing a visitor will notice is the well-lit and spacious lobby, improved amenities, a new education center, and a research facility to meet modern requirements. On the capacity side, behind the scenes is a storage facility that should provide space to collect for 20-30 years.
While the first three phases are done and staff are back in their offices, high-density shelving for future storage capacity has been installed and the collections have returned to the building. The fabrication and installation of the exhibit are in the works.
The reason we undertook the project at this time is for the more than 16,000 people from every state and 20 foreign countries who have visited and to be ready for the many more expected for the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026.
Since 1862, the Society has collected the South Dakota experience. Its rich collections are the most complete reference to stories and conditions in what is now the state. The renovation will keep us collecting at the pace South Dakotans have come to expect.
Final Strech
The first three rooms of the State Museum gallery opened on July 1, 2026, at 4 pm with the Governor, Lt. Governor, Foundation President, Francis Whitebird, and about 500 people in attendance. It was a day to celebrate!
The State Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 10-4:30, and Sunday 1-4:30. The museum is closed for maintenance on Monday.
The final three rooms will open in the spring of 2027. Now is the time to contribute to the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation to ensure a successful completion of the project. Contact Catherine Forsch today at 605-773-6003 or online to donate.
Journey
The project has proceeded on schedule and on budget.
The same pattern set by Gov. George Mickelson in the 1980s was followed in the renovation as well. The state provided for the physical infrastructure and the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation would raise the money for the exhibit panels and mounts.
ISG of Pierre and McGough of Sioux Falls built the physical infrastructure.
Split Rock Studios of Minneapolis is under contract for the exhibit.
The Society wisely used the time during which heavy construction was on site to keep developing the new State Museum exhibit. During this time, the public, academics, cultural leaders, and language advisors provided critical feedback.
The renovation allowed for an updated look, greater capacity, and broader understanding.
The people of South Dakota continue to make a great contribution to experiencing South Dakota history. Come see what you provided!
Those interested in supporting the project by partnering with the South Dakota Historical Society Foundation, please contact Catherine Forsch at 605-773-6003 or online.
To contact us, consult office and staff directories.
