Dr. Ben Jones, South Dakota State Historian and Director of the South Dakota State Historical Society, will moderate a dynamic panel discussion exploring the U.S. Semiquincentennial and how South Dakota communities are preparing to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026 and beyond.

Learn more about A250sd https://americas250th.sd.gov/

Only 150 spots available - early registration is encouraged!
Tuesday & Wednesday – Open Conference
Join the Annual State History Conference and connect with historians, educators, students, and history enthusiasts from across South Dakota and the surrounding region. This engaging two-day experience features a wide range of presentations and discussions that explore the people, places, and stories that shape our state’s history.

Teachers' Edition – South Dakota K–12 Educators (Limited to 35 Participants)
The first 35 educators to register will receive a sponsor-supported, FREE three-day conference experience.

The Teachers' Edition of the SD Annual History Conference is a two-and-a-half-day, in-person experience in Fort Pierre designed specifically for South Dakota K–12 educators.

Monday (Educators Only)
A full day of professional development sessions tailored for teachers, featuring classroom-ready strategies, resources, and collaboration with educators from across the state.

Tuesday & Wednesday (Open Conference)
Join the broader Annual State History Conference alongside historians, educators, and the public for engaging presentations and discussions on South Dakota history.

Continuing education credits are available for the full conference.

Full Registration Includes:
Professional development sessions on Monday; Trivia Night; all conference presentations on Tuesday and Wednesday; refreshment breaks; Tuesday lunch and Networking Social; a museum tour; and the Wednesday Awards Luncheon.

Once the initial 35 spots are filled, additional educators may register for the Tuesday–Wednesday conference sessions at the standard rate.

Dig into history this summer! Archaeology Camp is a three-day, hands-on adventure where campers will explore the exciting world of archaeology.

Dates: June 9–11, 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00am – 5:00pm daily
Location: Pierre, SD
Who Can Attend? Students entering grades 4–6 in the 2026–2027 school year (no exceptions).
If a camper cannot attend all three full days, please do not sign up to allow others to fully participate.

Registration Details
Opens: Friday, May 1, at 8:00am CT
Closes: When the camp is full OR by May 3, 2026 (whichever comes first)
⚠️ Spots are limited! In past years, registration filled within 20 minutes.
⚠️ Only 20 new campers will be accepted.

⚠️ If your child has attended before, they can join the waitlist by emailing their name to katie.wasley@state.sd.us between 8:00am on May 1 and 5:00pm on May 3. Past campers will only be considered if fewer than 20 new campers register.

What to Expect
Campers will experience real archaeology with activities like:
✅ Excavating an actual archaeological site
✅ Cleaning and sorting real artifacts
✅ Throwing atlatls (prehistoric spears)
✅ Exploring historic sites
✅ Creating metal decorations, ceramics, and more!

Don't miss out on this unique summer experience! Be ready to register right at 8:00am on May 1 to secure a spot.