Updated: 7/16/2019 
Dakota Territorial Museum
Yankton, South Dakota
Description

We focus on the history of the Dakota Territory to statehood, South Dakota Statehood into the early 1900's. In Dec. 2018 we moved into our new home - Mead Cultural Education Center.

Mission

"The Yankton County Historical Society, through the Dakota Territorial Museum, exists to preserve, protect, interpret, and educate the public about the heritage and development of the city and county of Yankton, and the surrounding area."

History

On June 12, 1936, the first museum in Yankton was opened. On May 24, 1953, the museum was moved and renamed the Dakota Territorial Museum. In 1971 we moved into our previous location.

In 2012, we will began the process of moving into our new building - a 109-year-old building that we are currently rehabilitating. The Mead Cultural Education Center will be the home of the Dakota Territorial Museum, Yankton County Historical Society, and the future home of the Yankton College Alumni Offices & Collection.

Research Collections

We are in the process of collection information to start a genealogy center when we move in a couple of years.

Governance

We are governed by the Yankton County Historical Society Board of Directors.

Library

Access: Staff Only

Appointment required: True

Services
Tours

Tours are always welcome. We can do guided tours or groups can do self-guided. Please call for more information.

Your Next Event Could be Here!

Whether you are planning a quaint reception or something more spectacular, the Mead Event Halls are the place to be. It's a beautiful location that can only be made more beautiful by your event/gathering. Perfect for receptions, parties, or meetings. Each room can comfortably seat 90 people. You can email events@meadbuilding.org

Host the kids with US!

The Mead Cultural Education Center is a great place to host a kid's party. We currently offer 2 party packages. Give a call about hosting your next birthday party or scout meeting... 605-665-3898. We can also talk to you about special rates for school/daycare groups.

Membership

Help us to preserve history for the generations to come by becoming a member of the Dakota Territorial Museum. Each Museum membership also makes you a member of the Yankton County Historical Society. Your membership helps to sustain operations and research facilities at the Museum.

Gift Shop
Event Rental
Group Tours
DISCLAIMER
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MUSEUM CONFERENCES

April 5 - 8, 2025

New York Museum Association 2025 Conference in Ithaca, NY

Ithaca Downtown Conference Center

Ithaca, New York

April 6 - 8, 2025

Nebraska Museum Association 2025 Conference

Hosted by the Knight Museum in Alliance, Nebraska

United States

April 6 - 9, 2025

Texas Association of Museums 2025 Conference Austin

AT&T Conference Center

Austin, Texas

April 27 - 29, 2025

Oregon Museum Association 2025 Conference

TBA

Independence, Oregon

May 5 - 9, 2025

Museum Store Association FORWARD 2025 in LA

The Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California

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