Images of the Past:
1961 Governor’s Forum
SDPB1: Thursday, July 2, 8pm (7 MT)
A new documentary features former South Dakota governors talking issues of the day in 1961.
by Matthew Reitzel, Manuscript Archivist, South Dakota State Archives
The South Dakota State Archives at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre has collected, digitized, and made footage from a 1961 history “classroom” broadcast available to SDPB. The film, created in 1961 as part of the state’s celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the establishment of Dakota Territory, features short interviews of former South Dakota Governors, including Governor William H. McMaster (by letter), Governor Leslie Jensen, Governor Merrill Q. Sharpe, Governor George T. Mickelson, Governor Sigurd Anderson, Governor Joe Foss, Governor Ralph Herseth and then-Governor Archie Gubbrud.
The interviews were filmed at Keloland TV studios in Sioux Falls in March 1961. The governors each took a few minutes to discuss the challenges they faced in office. They also talk about the key accomplishments of their administrations. A common theme from the later governors was the importance of Missouri River water development.
This film was part of a 2-credit history course that included 31 televised lectures taught by Leonard Jennewein, professor of history at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell. Students were provided an outline, a book list and other aids. The class included homework, two quizzes and a final exam. The main textbook used was Herbert Schell’s South Dakota, Its Beginning and Growth.
Over 200 students enrolled in the class and it is very likely that this was the first distance-learning class offered in South Dakota. The class began airing on aired on Keloland TV affiliates across the state on February 7, 1961 at 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., Tuesday & Thursday mornings, with a special 8:00 a.m. showing in Mitchell on Saturday mornings.
Space Age South Dakota
SDPB1: Thursday, July 2, 8:30pm (7:30 MT)
South Dakota has helped humankind “chase the moon” – and beyond – since the early days of space exploration.
Rails, Trails & Roads in the Black Hills
SDPB1: Thursday, July 23, 8:30pm (7:30 MT)
From walking to wildlife trails, the evolution of transportation and infrastructure in the Black Hills and surrounding area.
Deadwood Days of ‘76
SDPB1: Thursday, July 16, 8:30pm (7:30 MT)
History and evolution of the “Days of ‘76” parade and rodeo, including historic film and clips from 1928 through 2010.
South Dakota on Film
SDPB1: Thursday, July 30, 8pm (7 MT)
A look at some of the first films either shot in South Dakota or produced with a South Dakota story as a central plot element.
