Pioneerland Library System Legacy Grant SFY 2012 - SFY 2013

Civil War Days in Pipestone

Partners: Big Stone and Swift County libraries, City of Pipestone, MN

Description: A bus trip to Pipestone to attend Civil War Days. As one of the most enduring and respected events of its type in the upper Midwest, Pipestone Civil War Days is a tribute to our past. Set in a beautiful historic setting, visitors are invited to interact with civilian and military reenactors to share some of the flavor of the 1860's with them. Reenactors recreate scenes of daily life from the home to religion to education to military camps. Events included educational programs, etiquette and ballroom dance lessons, camp tours, children's games; Civil War battle reenactments, funeral programs, music, Gettysburg Address, Band Concerts, demonstrations, and many other things to do with the Civil War era.

Outcomes: Those attending learned many things by walking through the Union and Confederate camps and talking to the soldiers about their lifestyles, food, ammunition, etc. Learned about funeral practices, the young age of the soldiers, and that MN was the first state to volunteer soldiers to President Abraham Lincoln.

Anecdotal responses and other comments: "Very educational program on the history and life styles during the Civil War era - and how people coped with the hardships of war." "This was a wonderful, interesting, and thought-provoking day." "I think this program was absolutely terrific - a great opportunity! Nice to have the buses to be able to get us there or I would not have been able to attend."

Bringing Books to Life: Understanding the U.S. & Dakota Conflict:

Partners: Mcleod County Public Libraries, and the Mcleod County Historical Society and Museum.

Description: Bringing Books to Life: Understanding the U.S. & Dakota Conflict of 1862, was a partnership program between the Mcleod County Public Libraries and the Mcleod County Historical Society and Museum. This unique program focused on the Dakota Native American, Minnesota pioneer, and U.S Government experience inthe Dakota and U.S Conflict of H 62 A costumed interpreter took on the character of a suNivor, Nancy Faribault McClure, looking back on her life during the Conflict. Nancy's accoljrit iri the book, "Through Dakota Eyes," was read to describe her ordeal. She also showed artifacts and Seth Eastman paintings to further bring Nancy's story to life. Multiple programs were presented in schools and libraries across McLeod County.

Outcomes: Participants developed a deeper understanding of the reasons that led to the conflict betWeen the Dakotas, the settlers and the government agents. Participants learned how artifacts, literature and a skilled interpreter can bring the Conflict of 1862 to life. This program showed how history helps us understand the present and inspires and shapes the future as well as reaffirming the importance of respecting cultural differences.

Anecdotal responses and other comments: "I liked that the performer was dressed in time period clothing and that she brought artifacts to show the audience. She was very knowledgeable about the topic." "This was the first time I attended such a program--wonderful information!" "This program was a wonderful use of the Legacy dollars! It is great that outstate MN is not left out of these funds." "This program was informative - and a FUN way for kids to learn about history."

Musician & Storyteller Jack Pearson

Partners: Willmar Early Childhood Coalition; New London - Spicer Prairie Woods Elementary School

Description: Jack's 'I Love to Read' program is the perfect fit for I Love To Read month. Jack tells stories of books and the love of reading through music that opens the world of information and imagination.

Outcomes: An interactive presentation - this program kept the kids excited and involved. Children learned about some 'new' instruments that are actually very old. They used their imaginations. The program was lighthearted and fun - but also provided a message to the students about the love of music and of reading.

Anecdotal responses and other comments: "This was a very fun program and held my 3 year old's attention quite well--and that's not an easy feat!" "The songs were great and the variety of instruments and Jack's interaction with the kiddos was wonderful." "The music, stories, and interactive nature of this presentation was extremely engaging for my students. Jack Pearson did a great job!"