Dakota Territorial Museum

Welcome to the Dakota Territorial Museum

Take a step back in time as you enter the Dakota Territorial Museum. The museum holds a large collection of rare memorabilia of early life in the Dakota Territory. Some of the exhibits include the musical instruments of Felix Vinatieri, the band leader for General George Custer's 7th Calvary band, a Max Copper Vintage Boat Motor and fishing collection, Great Northern railroad caboose and one-room country school.

The Dakota Territorial Museum, located in West Side Park, Yankton, SD, is owned and operated by the Yankton County Historical Society. The Society was formed in 1961 and the current museum built in 1971. The Yankton County Historical Society, through the Dakota Territorial Museum, exists to preserve, protect, interpret, and educate the public about the heritage and development of the city and county of Yankton, and the surrounding area. Housing memorabilia of early Yankton and Dakota Territory days, including Native American Sioux (Lakota) Indian and Pioneer artifacts, the Museum offers visitors a glimpse into Yankton's rich pioneer history provided through period room exhibits, unique displays and a variety of outbuildings. In addition to the main museum building, outbuildings include the restored Gunderson Rural School House, the Great Northern Railway Depot and a retired Burlington Northern Caboose.

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