Center for Western Studies in South Dakota
The Center for Western Studies is located in the Fantle Building at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and cultures of the Northern Plains. The Center for Western Studies has collections of paintings, manuscripts, personal papers, and photographs that depict the history of South Dakota and the American West.
Some of the exhibits on display at the Center for Western Studies are not necessarily what you might think of as the history of the Northern Plains. For example, there is one exhibit containing photographs of rock and roll bands from the 1950's and 60's. The reason they are considered part of this history and culture is that they originated in the Sioux Falls area. It is great to keep an open mind when visiting the Center for Western Studies. You never know what surprises may lie in store. Previous exhibits have included various Sioux Falls area wildlife art, paintings depicting life in South Dakota throughout history, and other works created by regional artists. During the course of the display of each exhibit at the Center for Western Studies, a reception and talk is held so that visitors may discuss the works with the artists who created them.
The Center for Western Studies also contains a research library where over 35,000 books and periodicals are held. They are form the personal collections of local notables such as historian Richard Cropp and photographer Alan Woolworth. These writings focus on the American West, American literature, and American Indian lifestyle. Records held by the Center for Western Studies have even contributed to the retelling of the expedition of Lewis and Clark.
The Center for Western Studies is open year-round Monday through Saturday and admission is free (except to use the archives).
