Curators from the South Dakota State Historical Society Museum and Archives will present a special program, “Commemorative Items and Why We Collect Them,” at 2 p.m. CDT on Sunday, March 16, at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

The program will feature artifacts that can be found in the Archives and Museum that relate to the commemoration or celebration of important historical events and special events in our own communities.

Curator of Collections Daniel Brosz and Manuscript Archivist Matthew Reitzel will join together to share stories about their work with these special items. Among the items the curators will discuss are items related to the Dakota Territorial Centennial Commission in 1961, the South Dakota Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, the South Dakota Centennial in 1989, town anniversary materials and materials about fairs, including World’s Fairs.

“The way we remember our history says a lot about who we are as a people, and the evolution of the physical manifestations of commemorative celebrations is fascinating,” commented Jay Smith, museum director. “Dan and Matthew will provide an entertaining and educational event for all visitors.”

There is no additional fee to attend the program. Standard admission fees will apply for entrance to the museum exhibit galleries. The museum is open 1-4:30 p.m. on the 16th.