U.S.-DAKOTA WAR OF 1862 ORAL HISTORY PROJECT:

Minnesota Historical Society staff members collected fifty-two stories from Dakota people throughout Minnesota, the Midwest and Canada as well as from settler descendants in southwestern Minnesota during 2011 and 2012. Oral History is a way for many cultures from around the world to remember and relay history throughout generations. Ancestors have passed down oral history for thousands of years and no one oral history is more valid than the other. They are the personal feelings and oral history of each person interviewed. They are all honored and respected in a good way, with a good heart.

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Availability:

The collection is open for research use.

Preferred Citation:

[Indicate the cited item and/or series here]. U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 Oral History Project, Oral history interviews of the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 Oral History Project. Minnesota Historical Society.

See the Chicago Manual of Style for additional examples.

Accession Information:

Accession number: AV2011.45

Processing Information:

Catalog ID number: 9989871939804294

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Biographical Information: Barbara Anderson was born in St. James, Minnesota in 1942 to Leonard and Rosalie Marlow. She lives in Granite Falls, Minnesota and is enrolled as a Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux tribe member, and is also a member of the Upper Sioux Community.

Location

OH 183.1

Oral history interview with Barbara Anderson, May 4, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hours, 4 minutes, 28 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include boarding schools, historical consequences, hopes for the future, spirituality, Dakota life today, Dakota identity and self-acceptance, resilience, racism, reservations, Chief Red Iron, Fort Snelling, Native humor, and 1862.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Judith Anywaush was born in Granite Falls, Minnesota on June 7, 1945 to Naomi Bear and Floyd Walter Cavender. She lives in Granite Falls, Minnesota and is enrolled as a Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux tribe member.

Location

OH 183.2

Oral history interview with Judith Anywaush, March 10, 2011. 4 master audio files: digital, WAV (2 hours, 4 minutes, 35 seconds) and 4 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (27 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, education, poverty, 1862 and aftermath, Crow Creek, Fort Snelling, commemorative march, discrimination, and language.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: James Assiniboine was born on January 25, 1959 in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada to Rosemary and James Assiniboine. He attended a residential school from the age of 5 through 12. He lived in Winnipeg for a time but for the last 30 years he has lived on the Long Plain First Nation Reserve in Manitoba, Canada.

Location

OH 183.3

Oral history interview with James Assiniboine, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (11 minutes, 45 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (6 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, aftermath of War, family in War, and Dakota exile/diaspora.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: William Beane was born in Flandreau, South Dakota on November 27, 1943 to Sidney and Lillian Beane. William lived in Flandreau, South Dakota at the time of the interview.

Location

OH 183.4

Oral history interview with William Beane, June 27, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (36 minutes, 36 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (14 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota language, holiday celebrations, traditional foods (fry bread), Dakota in White world, interracial ancestry, treaties, Fort Snelling, Red Wing, Mendota, Fort Ridgely, and remembering 1862.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Lisa Besemer was born in New Ulm, Minnesota on February 8,1964 to Sharon and David Besemer. She lives on a farm near New Ulm, Minnesota that her grandparents bought in 1952 from Edward Geisler.

Location

OH 183.5

Oral history interview with Lisa Besemer, April 13, 2011. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (29 minutes, 47 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (14 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include settlers in 1862, Milford Township, and government compensations.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Robert Beussman was born in Springfield, Minnesota on May 21, 1945 to Rufina and Edwin Beussman. He lives in New Ulm, Minnesota and was an elementary school teacher before becoming Mayor of New Ulm, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.6

Oral history interview with Robert Beussman, August 10, 2011. 4 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 19 minutes, 14 seconds) and 4 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (18 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, 1862 and causes, settlers in War, weapons, assimilation and conversion, Germans, misperceptions, and persecution and prejudice.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Dean Blue was born near Granite Falls on February 18, 1927 to Harriet and Fred Blue. Dean lives in Granite Falls, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.7

Oral history interview with Dean Blue, April 27, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 16 minutes, 56 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (21 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota language, Dakota in White systems, school subjects, treaties, Dakota land encroachment, Minnesota River Valley, Dakota in the service, Fort Snelling, remembering 1862, Casinos, and U.S. government subsidies.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Clifford Canku was born in the Long Hollow District near Sisseton, South Dakota on July 10, 1938 to Martha and Elijah Harold Canku. He is enrolled as a Sisseton Wahpeton Sioux tribe member.

Location

OH 183.8

Oral history interview with Clifford Canku, June 10, 2011. 4 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 7 minutes, 22 seconds) and 4 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (18 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include aftermath of 1862, oral history, Dakota social structure, gender roles, Dakota culture and values, Dakota land, spirits, causes of War, U.S. immigration policy, Dakota land encroachment, Fort Snelling, and Fort Ridgely.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Michael Childs was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on May 2, 1945 to Lucille and Lorenzo Childs. He lives in Welch, Minnesota and is enrolled as a member in the Prairie Island Sioux tribe.

Location

OH 183.9

Oral history interview with Michael Childs, April 20, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hours, 37 minutes, 22 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (21 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, education, boarding schools, Lena Campbell, Dakota culture and values, hunting, Dakota factions, 1862, John Otherday, assimilating, genocide, Adolph Hitler, germ warfare, Dakota land, differences between White and Dakota, racism, and alcoholism.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Evelyn Eischen was born in New Ulm on April 21, 1930 to Burt and Mary Windschitl. She lives in New Ulm.

Location

OH 183.10

Oral history interview with Evelyn Eischen, August 10, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (38 minutes, 51 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include immigrant descendants, German language, settlers in War, aftermath of 1862, remembering 1862, and remembering ancestors.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Mary Fellegy was born in New Ulm in 1920 to Josephine and Peter Kitzberger Sr. She lives in New Ulm, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.11

Oral history interview with Mary Fellegy, May 31, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (52 minutes, 45 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (15 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include teaching history, remembering 1862, and perceptions of New Ulm.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Sandee Geshick was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on November 19,1951 to Thomas and Iola Columbus. She lives on the Lower Sioux Reservation.

Location

OH 183.12

Oral history interview with Sandee Geshick, June 10, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (35 minutes, 49 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (8 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota culture and values, spirituality, remembering 1862, Davenport Prison, aftermath of 1862, family in War, honoring ancestors, leaders of War, Little Crow, fortitude, and resilience.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: George Glotzbach was born in New Ulm on August 4, 1931 to Lucile and Linus Glotzbach. He lives in New Ulm, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.13

Oral history interview with George L. Glotzbach, August 11, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (47 minutes, 3 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include remembering 1862, Dakota and settler relations today, violence, perspectives of 1862, war, current events, Fort Snelling, preservation, and inter-cultural relationships.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Pamela Halverson was born in Marshall, Minnesota on November 24, 1952 to Wallace and Lorraine Gregg. Her Indian name is Wadutuwe meaning Red Snow Woman. She is enrolled as a member of and lives on the Lower Sioux Reservation.

Location

OH 183.14

Oral history interview with Pamela Halverson, February 23, 2011. 10 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 39 minutes, 42 seconds) and 10 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (25 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, education, discrimination, remembering 1862 and ancestors, Dakota survival, U.S./Indian policy, Dakota life today, home, Dakota land, Dakota ceremonies, and Dakota culture and values.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Alice Henle was born in July, 1934 in Brown County near Searles, Minnesota to Herbert and Francis Griebel. She lives in New Ulm, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.15

Oral history interview with Alice Henle, March 31, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (58 minutes, 59 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (17 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include settlement, German Land Society, Homestead Act, causes of 1862 War, settlers in war, and Upper Sioux Agency.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Marina James was born on January 10, 1937 in Granite Falls, Minnesota to Victoria and Raymond Smoke while her mother and aunt were visiting relatives. Marina attended an Indian Residential School in Portage la Prairie from the age of 4 through 14. She is a member of the Dakota Tipi First Nation in Manitoba, Canada.

Location

OH 183.16

Oral history interview with Marina James, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (1 hour, 37 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (20 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, family, work, Dakota culture and values, spirituality, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, family in War, aftermath of War, Dakota exile/diaspora, Dakota life today, and homeland.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Frederick Juni was born March 21, 1941 to Lowell and Hilda Juni. He lives in New Ulm, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.17

Oral history interview with Frederick Juni, June 1, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 1 minute, 3 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include homesteading, sod houses, Dakota/settler relations, reservations, settler life, New Ulm, settlers in War, remembering 1862, humanity, aftermath of 1862, Mankato hangings, violence, ways of commemorating, and Brown County.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Donna Korstad was born on June 8, 1955 to Douglas and Carol Peterson. She lives in Granite Falls, Minnesota and is enrolled as a member of the Upper Sioux Reservation.

Location

OH 183.18

Oral history interview with Donna Korstad, May 5, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (20 minutes, 42 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (10 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, play, Dakota reservations, and holidays.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: John LaBatte lives in New Ulm, Minnesota but grew up in Minneapolis, Wyoming, Minnesota, and Robbinsdale. He is of Dakota and White descent.

Location

OH 183.19

Oral history interview with John LaBatte, May 31, 2011. 4 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hours, 18 minutes, 28 seconds) and 4 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (19 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include settlers in War, remembering 1862, Minnesota Historical Society, forced conversion, missionaries, causes of War, Dakota/trader relations, kinship, Dakota vs. Christian spirituality, Dakota warfare, violence, Mankato hangings, remembering 1862, teaching the War of 1862, fur trade, and treaties.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Walter "Super" LaBatte was born in Pipestone, Minnesota in 1948 to Walter and Genevieve LaBatte. He lives in Granite Falls, Minnesota and is enrolled as a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Reservation - Lake Traverse Reservation.

Location

OH 183.20

Oral history interview with Walter LaBatte, April 28, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 12 minutes, 19 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (20 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota culture and values, Francois LaBatte, aftermath of 1862, results of oppression, Dakota in the War, Fort Snelling, Dakota factions, U.S. Government today, and German attitudes.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Ed LaBelle was born in Veblen, South Dakota on January 10, 1935 to Margaret and Edward LaBelle. Ed lived in Stillwater, Minnesota at the time of the interview.

Location

OH 183.21

Oral history interview with Ed LaBelle, June 7, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (1 hour, 11 minutes, 47 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (22 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota language, working for the Northern Pacific Railroad, school life, World War II ration stamps, Christianity and Dakota spirituality, Indian boarding schools, reasons for the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, Renville Rangers, treaties, Crow Creek, Dawes Allotment Act, Dakota walk to Fort Snelling, execution site at Mankato, Henry Sibley and Alexander Ramsey, "Half Breed Scrip" at Fort Snelling, internment camp at Fort Snelling, and Dakota contributions to the world.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Elden Lawrence was born in Sisseton, South Dakota in 1936 to Melvin and Marie Lawrence. He lives on the Sisseton Wahpeton Reservation near Peever, South Dakota.

Location

OH 183.22

Oral history interview with Elden Lawrence, April 12, 2011. 7 master audio files: digital, WAV (3 hours, 44 seconds) and 7 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (36 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota social structure, Dakota in the service, continuing education, Lorenzo Lawrence, 1862 and aftermath, Dakota life today, inter-cultural relationships, U.S. Indian history, U.S. Indian policies, treaties, and commemoration.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Melvin Littlecrow was born on May 16, 1942 at the Whitecap First Nation Reserve (formerly Mosoat's Reserve) to Jessie Buffalo and Andrew Littlecrow. Melvin is a lifelong member of the Whitecap Reserve. He attended a day school at Whitecap through the eighth grade. He is a direct descendant of Chief Little Crow.

Location

OH 183.23

Oral history interview with Melvin Littlecrow, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (53 minutes, 12 second) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (12 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, family, education, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, family in War, aftermath of War, perspectives on War, Little Crow, and Dakota history.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Melvin Longclaws was born on February 13, 1957 in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada to Eliza Longclaws and Clifford Chaske. He was raised at Sioux Village until he was 8 years old when he went into Boarding School until he was 14. He was reunited with his family until age 18 when he went into the military. Upon completion of military duty, he became a roofer for 25 years in various places including Calgary, Winnipeg and Brandon. Upon retirement he returned to the Long Plain Reserve, Manitoba.

Location

OH 183.24

Oral history interview with Melvin Longclaws, January 19, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (13 minutes, 40 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (5 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, perspectives on War, shared history, manifest destiny, Dakota hopes for the future, and Dakota contributions to North America.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Orlin Mack was born in rural New Ulm, Minnesota on August 23, 1920 to Armin and Adelheid Mack. He lives in the house that he was born in near New Ulm.

Location

OH 183.25

Oral history interview with Orlin Mack, April 13, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (43 minutes, 14 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include settlers in the War.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Willard Manderfeld was born on born December 12, 1928 in Linden Township, Brown County, Minnesota to Eugene Manderfeld and Hilda Drexler. He lives in the New Ulm, Minnesota area.

Location

OH 183.26

Oral history interview with Willard Manderfeld, August 11, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (38 minutes, 33 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (16 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, German-American life in New Ulm area, and family involvement in War of 1862.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Carol Merrick was born on February 22, 1949 at Long Plain Reserve in Manitoba, Canada to Angus Merrick and Flora Myron. She grew up on the Long Plain Reserve.

Location

OH 183.27

Oral history interview with Carol Merrick, January 19, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (15 minutes, 242 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3.

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include Dakota life today, family, inter-cultural relationships, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, aftermath of War, and hopes for the future. This interview currently has no transcript.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Ruby Minkel was born in Pipestone, Minnesota on July 18, 1942 to Alfred and Marian Leith. She lives in Morton, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.28

Oral history interview with Ruby Minkel, February 24, 2011. 6 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 8 minutes, 5 seconds) and 6 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (23 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota and Dakota life today.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Elsie Noel was born on June 24, 1924 on the Birdtail Sioux Reserve, Manitoba Canada to Florence Paul and Samuel Bohpa. Elsie is an elder with the Dakota Tipi First Nation, Manitoba. As a child she attended an Indian School in Birtle, Manitoba, and lived in Portage la Prairie for 35 years before returning to the Birdtail Sioux Reserve.

Location

OH 183.29

Oral history interview with Elsie Noel, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (44 minutes, 17 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (18 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, family, boarding school, Dakota culture and values, language, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, aftermath of War, Dakota exile/diaspora, punitive expeditions, life today, and jobs.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Raymond Owen was born in Red Wing, Minnesota on February 4, 1955 to Amosapollus and Ione Leola Owen. He lives in Welch, Minnesota and is enrolled in the Prairie Island Dakota Community.

Location

OH 183.30

Oral history interview with Raymond Owen, April 20, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 46 minutes, 3 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (27 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include inter-tribal relationships, Dakota land, Fort Snelling, and treaties.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Bruce Pashe was born November 14, 1966 in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada to Gerald Pashe and Dolores Merrick. He has been a lifelong member of the Dakota Tipi First Nation.

Location

OH 183.31

Oral history interview with Bruce Braden Pashe, January 19, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (8 minutes) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (4 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, aftermath of War, and Dakota hopes for the future.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: David Pashe was born on April 9, 1950 in the old Sioux Village just south of Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada to Agnes and Leonard Pashe. He now lives at Dakota Tipi First Nation, Manitoba but was educated and worked in Brandon, Manitoba for 26 years.

Location

OH 183.32

Oral history interview with David Pashe, January 19, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (25 minutes, 28 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (8 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, family, Dakota history, Dakota language and culture, spirituality, Christianity, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, aftermath of War, perspectives on War, causes of War, Dakota exile/diaspora, family in War, repatriation, and inter-cultural relationships.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Randolph Pashe was born in 1946 in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada to Agnes Chaske and Andre Pashe. He lived at the Old Sioux Village Reserve until 1970 when he moved to the Dakota Tipi First Nation, Manitoba, Canada. He attended the Prince Charles School in Portage la Prairie. For the past 14 years, he has worked as a councilor on the reserve. He is said to be a direct descendant of Chief Sitting Bull.

Location

OH 183.33

Oral history interview with Randolph Pashe, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (19 minutes, 38 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (8 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, family in 1862, aftermath of 1862, Dakota exile/diaspora, and hopes for the future.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Trudy Pashe was born on December 11, 1961 at Dakota Tipi First Nation, Manitoba, Canada to Dolly Merrick and Bruce Pashe. Her ancestors came to Canada with Sitting Bull. She spends much of her time researching Dakota families from all of the Dakota Reserves in Manitoba.

Location

OH 183.34

Oral history interview with Trudy Pashe, January 19, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (18 minutes, 34 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (8 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, family in War, ways of commemorating, hopes for the future, and Dakota history and identity.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Joan Pendleton was born in Sisseton, South Dakota on August 22, 1935 to Joseph and Sarah Goodthunder. She lives in Morton, Minnesota and is enrolled as a member of the Lower Sioux Community.

Location

OH 183.35

Oral history interview with Joan Pendleton, March 2, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 8 minutes, 17 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (19 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, boarding schools, remembering 1862, and Dakota life today.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Dallas Ross was born in Granite Falls, Minnesota in 1956 to Rufus and Verna Ross. He lives in Granite Falls and is enrolled as a member of the Upper Sioux Community.

Location

OH 183.36

Oral history interview with Dallas Ross, May 1, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 17 minutes, 14 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (20 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota in White systems, Dakota culture and values, Dakota identity, spirituality, 1862, Dakota factions, and War locations.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Richard Runck was born in New Ulm, Minnesota on November 21, 1937. He lives in New Ulm.

Location

OH 183.37

Oral history interview with Richard Runck, April 1, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 29 minutes, 54 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (28 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include remembering 1862 and War commemoration.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Carrie Schommer was born in Granite Falls, Minnesota on March 12, 1930. She lives in Granite Falls and is enrolled as a member of the Upper Sioux Community.

Location

OH 183.38

Oral history interview with Carolynn Schommer, April 27, 2011. 5 master audio files: digital, WAV (2 hours, 32 minutes, 56 seconds) and 5 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (30 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota in White systems, storytelling, education, oral history, 1862 and aftermath, and War locations.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Sylvan Schumacher was born in Leavenworth Township near Sleepy Eye, Minnesota on May 10, 1934 to Ben and Francis Schumacher. He lives on the home place that his great-grandfather, John Joseph Schumacher, homesteaded.

Location

OH 183.39

Oral history interview with Sylvan Schumacher, August 10, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (51 minutes, 35 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (14 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include 1862 and aftermath, settlers in War, Dakota/settler relations, homesteading, sod houses, and midwifery.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Ellen Scott was born in Redwood Falls, Minnesota on April 21, 1949 to Margie Ann Bluestone and Richard Guy Good Thunder, both from Redwood Falls. She lives in Redwood Falls, Minnesota and is an enrolled member of the Lower Sioux Community.

Location

OH 183.40

Oral history interview with Ellen Scott, March 9, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (39 minutes, 42 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (14 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota in another state, returning to the reservation, and life as a military wife.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Clayton Maxwell Smoke was born on October 7, 1944 at Old Sioux Village near Portage la Prairie, Manitoba, Canada to Raymond Smoke and Victoria Pashe. He has lived at Portage La Prairie most of his life with a brief stint at Dakota Plains First Nation, Manitoba.

Location

OH 183.41

Oral history interview with Clayton Maxwell Smoke, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (26 minutes, 57 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (11 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 and its aftermath, the Dakota exile/diaspora, and punitive expeditions.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

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Biographical Information: Leslie Smoke was born on December 29, 1941 on the Dakota Plains First Nation Reserve, Manitoba, Canada to Tiyo Myron and Chaska Smoke. He is a lifelong member of the Dakota Plains Community. He attended a day school at Dakota plains for 7 years. He has lived in several places including High Bluff and Lockport, Manitoba.

Location

OH 183.42

Oral history interview with Leslie Smoke, January 18, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (27 minutes, 44 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up, boarding school, Dakota culture and values, the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862 and ways of commemorating, inter-cultural relationships, life today, spirituality, and Christianity.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Terry Sveine was born in New Ulm, Minnesota on October 27, 1954 to George and Lois Sveine. Terry lives in New Ulm.

Location

OH 183.43

Oral history interview with Terry Sveine, August 2, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (44 minutes, 46 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (15 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include 1862 and aftermath, Dakota and settlers in War, remembering and teaching the War, learning from the past and education, and reconciliation.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

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Biographical Information: LaVonne Swenson was born in Pipestone, Minnesota on August 22, 1948 to Thomas and Iola Jean Columbus. She is enrolled as a member of the Lower Sioux Community and lives on the Lower Sioux Reservation.

Location

OH 183.44

Oral history interview with LaVonne Swenson, February 15, 2011. 8 master audio files: digital, WAV (2 hours, 11 minutes, 39 seconds) and 8 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (38 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include 1862 and aftermath, remembering the War, War locations, education, and Dakota contributions to the U.S.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

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Biographical Information: Albert Taylor was born on the Oak River Reserve (Sioux Valley First Nation) 25 miles west of Brandon, Manitoba on November 5, 1927 to Amos and Harriet Taylor. He is a member of the Dakota Oyate Community where he has lived all his life except when he attended a boarding school in Labret, Saskatchewan.

Location

OH 183.45

Oral history interview with Albert Taylor, January 20, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (44 minutes, 34 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (14 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, boarding schools, language, U.S.-Dakota War and perspectives.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

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Biographical Information: Myron Taylor was born in Flandreau, South Dakota on September 7, 1946 to Bernice and Theodore Taylor. Myron lived in Flandreau, South Dakota at the time of the interview.

Location

OH 183.46

Oral history interview with Myron Taylor, June 28, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (40 minutes, 48 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (19 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota language, Dakota in White world, National Park Service, self-taught Dakota history, Dakota discrimination, Cajun style cooking, Davenport prison, Hole in the Mountain at Lake Benton, Santee, Nebraska, homestead land, Dakota Christians, Mankato hangings, Birch Coulee, remembering 1862, origin of scalping tradition, treaties, and casinos.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Beverly Wakeman was born in Pipestone, Minnesota on August 18, 1933 to Mary and Enos Redwing. Beverly was living in Flandreau, South Dakota at the time of the interview. .

Location

OH 183.47

Oral history interview with Beverly Wakeman, June 27, 2012. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (36 minutes, 2 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (11 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota language, Dakota land assignment (homestead) in Flandreau, Christmas traditions, Flandreau garment factory, mixed marriage, and Davenport Prison.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Jerry Weldy was born in Nicollet County, Minnesota on January 27, 1939 to Lyle and Vera Weldy. Jerry lives in New Ulm, Minnesota.

Location

OH 183.48

Oral history interview with Jerry Weldy, June 1, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (40 minutes, 34 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (10 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include 1862, settlers in War, Dakota factions, and Dakota/settler relations.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Lorraine Wels was born in New Ulm, Minnesota on April 18, 1925 to Alfred and Hertha Windland. Lorraine lives in New Ulm.

Location

OH 183.49

Oral history interview with Lorraine Wels, August 2, 2011. 3 master audio files: digital, WAV (53 minutes, 20 seconds) and 3 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (13 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include family immigration and settlement, growing up, and causes of War of 1862.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Byron White was born in Red Wing, Minnesota on December 10, 1940 to Martin and Elsie May White. Byron lives in Lake Elmo, Minnesota and is a tribal member of the Prairie Island Indian Community.

Location

OH 183.50

Oral history interview with Byron White, April 21, 2011. 2 master audio files: digital, WAV (41 minutes, 4 seconds) and 2 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (14 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota culture and values, Dakota in White systems, 1862, and Dakota and U.S. Government.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Debra White was born September 14, 1951 in Winnebago, Nebraska to Noah C. White Sr. and Blanch Ruby White. She lives in Welch, Minnesota and is an enrolled member of the Prairie Island Indian Community.

Location

OH 183.51

Oral history interview with Debra White, April 20, 2011. 1 master audio file: digital, WAV (29 minutes, 34 seconds) and 1 user audio file: digital, MP3. Transcript (11 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, grandparents' experience in boarding school, and War of 1862.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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Biographical Information: Lillian Wilson was born in Pipestone, Minnesota on July 18, 1939 to Tom and Eleanor Columbus. She is enrolled as a member of the Lower Sioux Community and lives on the Lower Sioux Reservation.

Location

OH 183.52

Oral history interview with Lillian Wilson, February 27, 2011. 4 master audio files: digital, WAV (1 hour, 49 minutes, 59 seconds) and 4 user audio files: digital, MP3. Transcript (27 pages).

Scope and Content: Topics discussed include growing up Dakota, Dakota culture and values, Dakota in White systems, Remembering 1862, education, spirituality, boarding schools, Dakota life today, and U.S./Indian history.

Interviewed by: Deborah Locke

Transcript - Digital version

Digital version

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This collection is indexed under the following headings in the catalog of the Minnesota Historical Society. Researchers desiring materials about related topics, persons or places should search the catalog using these headings.

Topics:

Dakota Indians.

Dakota Indians--Social life and customs

Dakota War, Minnesota, 1862.

Persons:

Locke, Deborah (Oral historian), interviewer.

Anderson, Barbara, 1942- interviewee.

Anywaush, Judith, interviewee.

Assiniboine, James, interviewee.

Beane, William, 1943- interviewee.

Besemer, Lisa, interviewee.

Beussman, Robert, interviewee.

Blue, Dean, interviewee.

Canku,Clifford, interviewee.

Childs, Michael, interviewee.

Eischen, Evelyn, interviewee.

Fellegy, Mary, interviewee.

Geshick, Sandee, interviewee.

Glotzbach, George L., 1931- interviewee.

Halverson, Pamela, interviewee.

Henle, Alice, interviewee.

James, Marina, interviewee.

Juni, Frederick, interviewee.

Korstad, Donna, interviewee.

LaBatte, John, interviewee.

LaBatte, Walter, Jr., interviewee.

LaBelle, Ed, interviewee.

Lawrence, Elden, 1936- interviewee.

Littlecrow, Melvin, interviewee.

Longclaws, Melvin, interviewee.

Mack, Orlin, interviewee.

Manderfeld, Willard, interviewee.

Merrick, Carol, interviewee.

Minkel, Ruby, interviewee.

Noel, Elsie, interviewee.

Owen, Raymond, 1955- interviewee.

Pashe, Bruce Braden, interviewee.

Pashe, David, interviewee.

Pashe, Randolph, interviewee.

Pashe, Trudy, interviewee.

Pendleton Joan, interviewee.

Ross, Dallas, interviewee.

Runck, Richard, 1937- interviewee.

Schommer, Carolyn I., interviewee.

Schommer, Wahpetunwin Carolynn, interviewee.

Schumacher, Sylvan, interviewee.

Scott, Ellen, interviewee.

Smoke, Clayton Maxwell, interviewee.

Smoke, Leslie, interviewee.

Sveine, Terry, interviewee.

Swenson, LaVonne, interviewee.

Taylor, Albert, 1927- interviewee.

Taylor, Myron, interviewee.

Wakeman, Beverly Redwing, interviewee.

Weldy, Jerry, interviewee.

Wels, Lorraine, interviewee.

White, Byron, interviewee.

White, Debra, interviewee.

Wilson, Lillian, interviewee.

Document Types:

Interviews.

Oral histories (document genres)

Sound recordings

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