Dancers in colorful regalia take part in the Sisseton-Wahpeton Dakota Nation's annual Wacipi or Pow Wow.
Sisseton is where history and culture come alive. A city located on the eastern slope of the Coteau Des Prairies, as the French explorers called the hills that rise over 800 feet to the West. Joseph Nicollet mapped the area in the 1830s and encountered the Dakota Indians. Home to the Sisseton-Wahpeton Dakota Nation, each year dancers in regalia take part in the Wacipi or Pow Wow, the oldest event in South Dakota. Tekakwitha Fine Arts Center has largest collection of Dakota Indian art, over 200 original works of art by 37 native artists. The Nicollet Tower and Interpretive Center gives a breathtaking three state view. Nicollet's great map, original John S. Wilson art work and the film "Dakota Encounters" are on display in the center. The Roberts County Court House, featured in the National Historic Registry is located near the Carnegie Library and period homes. Annual car show, trail ride, horse and buggy days provide entertainment. Activities for the area include horse back riding, 30 area lakes, swimming pool, golf course, water skiing, fishing, hunting and cross country skiing.
Location: Northeastern South Dakota, exit 232 off I-29 at SD Hwy. 10, then 2 miles west.
Population: 2,500. Convention facilities for 100. Member of Glacial Lakes & Prairies Tourism Association.
For more information:
Sisseton Chamber of Commerce PO Box 129 Sisseton, SD 57262 Phone:
(605) 698-7621 Fax: (605) 698-7906
Attractions
Nicollet Tower and Interpretive Center
PO Box 215 Sisseton, SD 57262-0215 Phone: (605) 698-7621 Fax:
(605) 698-7906
75 foot observation tower over looking the Coteau Des Prairies (hills of the prairies), Joseph N. Nicollet Interpretive Center houses Nicollet's great map of the area created in the 1830s. Video of the mapmakers' travels in the 1830s and his encounters with the Dakota Indians. Original art work by John S. Wilson, nationally recognized wildlife artist.
Located 3 1/2 miles west of Sisseton (exit 232 off I-29). Open Memorial Day to Labor Day 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m Tuesday-Saturday. Open Sunday 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Recommended length of tour: 1 hour (13 minute historical video, 30 minute talk).
Admission: Donations accepted. Advance notice is required for group tours.
Tekakwitha Fine Arts Center
PO Box 208
Sisseton, SD 57262
Phone: (605) 698-7058 Fax: (605) 698-3641
The unique collection of over 200 paintings, drawings and sketches exhibited at the center is the creative production of over 40 talented Dakota Sioux artists of the Lake Traverse Sioux Indian Reservation. The eight gallery areas which total 6400 sq. ft. are divided by subject rather than artist or style.
Located 1/4 mile south of Hwy. 10 at 401 S. 8th Ave. W. in Sisseton. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day seven days a week 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Off season hours are Tuesday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and closed Mondays.
Recommended length of tour: 1-2 hour walking tour.
Admission: Donations accepted....Member of ASDM and AAM.