A weekend of reminiscing, laughter and making new memories brought four generations of the late Jerry and Betty Higgins family together in Wessington Springs June 13-15.
The reunion was intentionally planned near two meaningful family milestones. Jerry and Betty would have celebrated their 78th wedding anniversary on June 9, and Betty's birthday falls on June 11, making the gathering a fitting tribute to the couple who started it all.
According to daughter JeanShultz,allof theliving Higgins siblings attended the reunion. Also present were 15 of the couple's 18 grandchildren, 25 of their 39 great-grandchildren and the family's greatgreat- granddaughter. On Sunday, the reunion expanded to include cousins from both Jerry's and Betty's sides of the family.
The city park became reunion headquarters for the weekend, with six campers and two tents set up as family members enjoyed evenings around the campfire. Friday night's activities included an outdoor movie for the children, complete with a projector, large screen and plenty of s'mores before the younger, over 21 generation continued the evening with a Main Street pub crawl.
Saturday offered something for every age. Some family members enjoyed golf while others attended a tea party at the Shakespeare Garden. The Jerauld County Pioneer Museum welcomed the Higgins family for a special opening, while others spent time at the city pool or explored the park. Several family members also traveled to the Shultz’ Turtle Peak Ranch, where they were treated to a trip to Turtle Peak and panoramic views.
Meals were shared throughout the weekend at the Wessington Springs Senior Center, with family members contributing dishes and gathering around tables for conversation and storytelling. Saturday evening concluded with a barbecue followed by a special remembrance of Betty. Family members drew names and selected keepsakes from tables displaying her jewelry and other treasured belongings, ensuring pieces of the family matriarch would continue to be shared among future generations.
For many of the relatives who traveled from larger communities, however, one of the greatest surprises was Wessington Springs itself. Children spent hours riding bicycles, playing in the park, cooling off at the pool and exploring town with cousins. The slower pace and sense of freedom left a lasting impression on visitors who appreciated the opportunity to let kids be kids.
What feels routine to locals was anything but ordinary for family members accustomed to larger cities. The slower pace, welcoming atmosphere and opportunity for children to safely enjoy the outdoors became an unexpected highlight of the reunion, offering a glimpse of the qualities that continue to make rural communities special.