Exhibits & Museum Information
Whether it has been months or years since you last visited the Lake County Museum, you will find the facility transformed. The museum features new interpretive and interactive exhibits that offer a more engaging and educational experience for visitors. We also have a new gift shop with unique souvenirs and memorabilia.
Rather than a stuffy, old-time museum, the Lake County Museum is where history comes alive and you can immerse yourself in the life experiences of the region’s pioneers.
Museum Hours:
Standard Hours:
Monday – Friday
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Summer Hours: June 6 – August 29
Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Thursdays until 6 p.m.
The Lake County Museum is located on the campus of Dakota State University in Madison, SD.
Address:
221 NE 8th St.
Madison SD 57042
During the summer months, parking is not monitored on campus. The museum is closed on federal holidays
Exhibits:
The Story of a Wagon
Westward Expansion and Lake County
In 1879, the Boyd family walked for three weeks and 280 miles to settle in their new home, Herman Township, Lake County, SD. They traveled with their farm animals and their wagon, brimming with everything necessary to make their new home in Dakota Territory. The exhibit is centered around the Boyds’ 1860s prairie schooner. What was in Lake County when they arrived? What did they see, smell, and experience on their journey? Discover for yourself in this interactive exhibit.
A New Home: Staking Your Claim in 1870s Lake County
Explore our 8’x 10’ reproduction claim shanty
As you step back in time, you’ll find yourself amidst the soddies and claim shanties that once dotted the prairies of Dakota Territory. The Homestead Act of 1862 played a crucial role in shaping this region, bringing settlers west in search of new opportunities and a fresh start.
Imagine the daily lives of early homesteaders. Entire families lived in these modest dwellings until they could build larger, more permanent homes. This authentic experience offers a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced by those who helped to settle the Dakota Territory.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about pioneer life, this immersive exhibit provides a meaningful connection to our past. See how the Homestead Act transformed the prairies, one shanty at a time.
Progress
40 Years of the Personal Computer 1980s – 2000s
Brothers Adam and Brady Zimmel began collecting vintage computers about 10 years ago to feed their fascination with obsolete technology. They found the discarded tech in dumpsters, at garage sales, and as curbside castoffs. This exhibit features an Apple IIe, blue iMac G3, and early cell phones and personal computers. It is on display from Dakota State University.
Eugene Vidal
Hometown Hero
Vidal, an aviation pioneer and Olympic athlete, was born in Lake County in 1895. He competed in the 1920 Olympics and served as director of the Bureau of Air Commerce (which preceded the Federal Aviation Administration) under FDR. He founded three American commercial airlines, including one, Northeast Airlines, with Amelia Earhart. He is also the father of famed author, Gore Vidal.
Chautauqua!
Lake Madison Chautauqua, 1891-1932
In the early years of South Dakota, the long, hot summers were interrupted with excitement when Chautauqua came to town. Thousands of people would come to the shores of Lake Madison to experience this national traveling cultural tent show which took place over two weeks in June and July. Residents and visitors would enjoy well-known speakers, musical entertainers, and activities like swimming and boating. Teddy Roosevelt famously said, “Chautauqua is the most American thing in America.”
Archives & Fees
The Lake County Museum archives contain a treasure trove of photographs and other artifacts covering a variety of topics. Our extensive newspaper collection includes various papers printed in Lake County between 1881 and 1953, as well as records like obituaries and family histories, that will assist in genealogical research.
Research Fee
Up to one hour of research time is free. Additional research time will be charged at $30 per hour for non-members and $15 per hour for members. Any research time that extends beyond the first free hour will be discussed with the client before proceeding.
Photograph Scans
Some image reproduction requests may be denied due to the fragile nature of the original artifact.
$10 per image scanned at 399 or less dpi and emailed
$20 per image scanned at 400 dpi or more will be emailed or picked up or mailed on a flash drive*
*Additional costs will apply if the client wishes to have the flash drive mailed.
Proper citation is required for any public use of images and must include “Courtesy of the Lake County Museum.”
Document Encapsulation
$10 Up to an 8 ½ x 11
$15 Up to an 11 x 14
$20 Up to a 24 x 36
Research and Reproduction Fees
Members of the Lake County Historical Society/Lake County Museum who have a membership at the Genealogist level ($50 and up) will receive a 10 percent discount on services.
Use Fees
Use fees are charged to provide resources for preserving and providing access to unique and fragile historical photograph collections.
Personal use fee – Free
Nonprofit use fee - $25 per order
Commercial use fee - $50 per order
Photocopies or digital images (with phone)
$.50 B&W or color
Obituaries and Memorial Card Copies
$5 per request