October 2: Preservation Thursday: Dakota Territory’s Historic Forts – Omaha author Jeff Barnes introduces The Forts of the Dakota Territory. The program is presented by Deadwood History Inc. and Deadwood Historic Preservation with a grant from the South Dakota Humanities Council. The presentation covers twelve of the territory’s military posts, covering more than 150 years of Dakota history. “The Dakota forts rank among the most important in the history of the Great Plains, and all with histories tied to the Sioux nation,” said Barnes. His talk includes a brief history of the posts, seldom-heard tales, and many rarely seen historic images and maps. Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center; 12:00 p.m. Sponsored in part by the South Dakota Humanities Council. The event is free.
October 3-4, 10-11, and 17-18: Paranormal Investigations of the Adams House – Join us for paranormal investigations with Deadwood History, Inc. and Black Hills Paranormal Investigations (BHPI) in October with exclusive investigations at one of Deadwood’s most haunted sites. Participants will search for paranormal activity in the Historic Adams House with the BHPI team using parascopes, para-lanterns, the Tempest, Rem-Pod, Onvoy ghost box, Pharaoh Box, Flux 2, Ovilus, digital audio recorders, laser grids, divining rods, K2’s, Dead Bell, and EMF meters. Investigations are offered at 6:00, 7:30, 9:00, and 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 and limited to 24 people per investigation. You must be at least 12 years old to participate. Ages 12 – 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations are required. Purchase tickets online at DeadwoodHistory.com or call 605-722-4800 for more information.
October 18: Learn the Technique of Headstone Rubbing at Mount Moriah – Join us for a unique hands-on activity exploring the historic Mount Moriah Cemetery. Participants will learn the techniques and etiquette of headstone rubbing while discovering stories from Deadwood’s past. Meet at the Days of ‘76 Museum; the program will run from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Free for students in grades K–6, but space is limited. For more information or to reserve a spot, please call 605-578-1657.
November 6: Preservation Thursday: Dark Winter – The Pursuit of Justice for Murderer George Sitts – Journalist Tim Velder will present the gripping true story of the December 1945 murder of a St. Paul, Minnesota, liquor store clerk and the subsequent nationwide manhunt for the suspect, George Sitts. Velder will trace the dramatic sequence of events – from the initial crime, capture, and conviction, to Sitts’ daring escape in January 1946 and the ensuing chase through the Black Hills and into Wyoming that left even more tragedy in its wake. Drawing from more than 35 years of research, including newspaper accounts and first-person stories, Velder brings this incredible chapter of history to life. Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center; 12:00 p.m.; free for members and $5 for non-members.
November 15: Learn the Art of Paper Quilling – Kids in grades K–6 are invited to learn the delicate art of paper quilling at this fall-themed crafting program. Participants will create festive autumn designs using rolled and shaped paper. Days of ‘76 Museum; 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Call 605-578-1657 to register. Space is limited.
December 6: Holiday Open House – Join us for Deadwood History’s annual Holiday Open House celebration at the Days of ’76 Museum from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Open House includes children’s activities, face painting, great holiday gifts for family and friends, free museum access, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Refreshments will be served. Admission is free. For more information, please call 605-722-4800.
December 13: Christmas Cheer Workshop – Celebrate the season with festive creativity. Kids in grades K–6 will design and decorate their own holiday ornaments to take home or give as gifts. This cheerful, hands-on activity offers a fun way for children to express their holiday spirit. Days of ‘76 Museum; 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. For more information or to reserve a spot, please call 605-578-1657. Space is limited.
