Clear Lake Historical Society and Museum

HISTORY

The lots on which the museum stands were platted in 1884 by E. S. Ellsworth of the Northwestern Land and Trust Co.  The building was originally part of the Lockhart building, constructed in 1901 and leased to the post office from 1913 to 1933.  It was later used to house a dry-cleaning business for many years.  Previous owners were Andrew Lockhart, George and Jennie Artus, L.G. Boersma, and Phil Parliament.  Many of these owners lived in an apartment in the rear of the building. 

The Clear Lake Historical Society purchased the building in 1981.  The early construction is still recognizable with the preservation of the block front.  The historical society was incorporated on September 1, 1981 and organized in December of the same year.  The original board of directors included president Leon Begalka, vice-president Arnold Ditmanson, secretary-treasurer Donna Hughes, Edna Knight, Bessie Levins and Gordon Gunderson.  In 1983, the board voted to increase the size of the board from 6 to 9 members and added David Koenecke, Maynard Piper, Sandra Bendt and Yvonne Gauger.  At the age of 95, Bessie Levins was made an honorary board member.

The intent of the museum is education into the history of the times and preservation of artifacts that relate to Clear Lake.  A grant by the South Dakota Committee on the Humanities provided the services of John Miller, a historian from South Dakota State University and William Swarting as consultant. 

Since the Clear Lake centennial in 1984, the museum has made some improvements and additions.  In 1987 the Lakeside District 18 schoolhouse was moved into town and placed behind the museum.  In 2000 an addition was built onto the west end of the museum.

The museum is open during special occasions such as Memorial Day, Rodeo Saturday, Dog Days, and also by appointment for tour groups, school groups, organizations and class and family reunions.

The museum board meets four times a year to make plans for the museum activities.  Membership is open to all and general membership is $10 per year.  Lifetime memberships are available at $100.

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