History and heritage came to life as the Beadle County Genealogy Group visited Wessington Springs for their June genealogy tour and educational meeting. The day was filled with rich local stories, historical insight, and fellowship as attendees explored several key landmarks in the community.
The group gathered at the iconic Shakespeare Garden, where Susan Arnott welcomed guests with a guided tour of the Anne Hathaway Cottage, showcasing the area’s literary and architectural charm. The tour then continued at the Wessington Springs Opera House, where Brian Bergeleen provided a behind-thescenes look at the beautifully restored venue and its significance to the town’s history including an addition built as a tribute to the late musician Kyle Evans of Company Cowboys.
Dinner followed at Sweet Grass Eatery, offering participants a chance to connect, reflect, and share stories over a meal. The group then made their way to the Pioneer Museum of Jerauld County, where they explored themed exhibits dedicated to local heritage— including displays on agriculture, religion, quilting, weddings, schools, medicine, and individual towns across the county.
June’s educational topic focused on how to use religious records to trace family history. Attendees gained valuable tips on locating baptism, marriage, and burial entries in church archives, they are vital tools for those researching ancestors prior to the availability of where to find the many different religious records.
The Beadle County Genealogy Group meets monthly in Huron at the Huron Public Library’s SD Resource Room except for June and July when they are on tour the first Wednesday of the month. The group also meets on the second Wednesday of the month in the evening. The full 2025 event schedule can be found at beadlecountygenealogygroup.com/events The group is collecting small town memories to be displayed at the South Dakota State Fair. The submission deadline is August 10.
Questions can be directed to presenter Kathy Micheel at 605-354-4829 or at todayforwardconsulting. com/genealogy