9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. central 

Homesteading in the Dakotas

Grades 4-8

The Dakotas were homesteaded in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Using our galleries and photos we will learn about the life of the settlers coming into the Dakotas to claim farm land or settle in towns.

Program by the State Historical Society of North Dakota, Bismarck

10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. central

TiPi: The Circle of Life

Grades 4-8

Curriculum Materials

The tipi was the ultimate dwelling for the plains Indians. It enabled its inhabitants to stay warm in winter yet cool in summer. Its design was sturdy and upright. Yet it was also very user friendly in its assembly. Learn about the history, customs, and construction of this versatile home.

Program by the Journey Museum, Rapid City, SD

11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. central

Smokey Bear and Living with Fire

Grades K-4

Curriculum Materials: Smokey Bear and Living with Fire

Young and old need to hear Smokey's message, "Remember, only YOU can prevent wildfires!" Participants will hear "the rest of the story" about the orphan cub that grew up to become "Smokey Bear," and the role a Dakota man had in nursing the burned cub back to life.

Program by the ND State Forest Service, Bottineau

12:30 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. central

Buffalo in the Box

Grades 2-5

Curriculum Materials

Bison were often called buffaloes by the early settlers, and the nickname is still used today. Indians had much love and respect for this animal that provided them with many things. Learn where the buffalo roam, their physical characteristics, their significance and their relationship to the Indian.

Program by The Journey Museum, Rapid City, SD

1:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. central

Hidatsa Gardening

Grade 4

Curriculum Materials

Gardening was a vital activity in these Hidatsa plains villages. Learn about planting practices, types of vegetables planted, and the art of drying and storing the surplus in a cache pit. The prosperity of the villages due to the garden produce allowed a vast amount of trading between the tribes.

Program by Knife River Indian Villages Historic Site of Stanton, ND