Bismarck’s Initiative in Documenting Native American History

Preserving the past for future generations through digitization.

News Summary

Bismarck, North Dakota, is spearheading a digitization project aimed at preserving the historical records of the Bismarck Indian School. Researchers are working to make these documents more accessible to Native American communities, bridging the gap between generations and fostering understanding. This initiative not only aims to heal historical wounds but also honors the memories of students who attended the school from 1907 to 1937. With support from local heritage foundations and colleges, the project emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the healing process.

Bismarck’s Bold Step Towards Healing Historical Wounds

Bismarck, North Dakota, is becoming a focal point of an important digitization project aimed at preserving the records of the Bismarck Indian School, which operated from 1907 to 1937. A dedicated group of researchers, including Prairie Rose Seminole and Dakota Goodhouse, are working diligently to bring historical information closer to Native American communities that have felt the impact of this important institution.

A Closer Look at the Bismarck Indian School

Most students who attended the Bismarck Indian School were from nearby Native American reservations in North Dakota. However, the original records that tell their stories are stored away at the National Archives located about 600 miles away in Kansas City, Missouri. This distance has made it challenging for families and communities to connect with the documents that hold so much significance to their history.

The Collection: What’s Inside?

The collection being digitized includes a variety of documents such as financial records, reports, official correspondence, personnel information, and student records. These documents tell the tales of a bygone era, giving insight into the lives of countless Native American students. As families begin to sift through this treasure trove of historical nuggets, there’s a palpable hunger for understanding regarding the boarding school era.

Emotional Journeys

As researchers dive into the archives, they are not just uncovering memories of the past, but also facing an emotional burden. Stories shared about the school’s management reveal a complicated history. In its early years, the Bismarck Indian School was well-run; however, the latter years witnessed a downward spiral in management and severe indignities suffered by the students. Accounts from the time depict stark contrasts in perceptions, as students called the school a “jail” while staff referred to it as a “playroom.” This gap illustrates just how differently the same environment was experienced by its occupants and its administrators.

Connecting with Ancestry

The emotional weight of this project is further deepened as researchers, like Goodhouse, discover names of relatives within these records. For him, the discovery of his grandmother’s name on a list of “Incorrigible Students” opened a door to understanding the familial impact the school had. This personal connection adds layers of meaning to the work, making it a journey of recovery for many involved.

The Role of Local Community and Partnerships

The digitization project is sponsored by local heritage foundations, including the Northern Plains Heritage Foundation and the Missouri Valley Heritage Alliance, with strong community college partnerships such as Nueta, Hidatsa, Sahnish College, and United Tribes Technical College involved in the effort. Their involvement emphasizes the commitment to nurturing the ties between academic pursuits and community healing.

Looking Ahead: Implementing Healing and Respect

Researchers understand that the digitization process might take multiple visits to the archives to collect and organize all the necessary documents. They are also working on a plan to share this sensitive material in a thoughtful manner. The focus is on creating opportunities for education, healing, and respect while ensuring that the history represented in these documents is honored.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Communities

As the project unfolds, it not only promises to bridge the gap between generations but also serves as a heartfelt reminder of the complicated legacy of the Bismarck Indian School. Communities are set to embark on a journey of rediscovery, armed with the truths of the past, creating a space for dialogue and understanding. Bismarck is taking a significant step toward reconciliation, showcasing that history is alive and continues to be relevant in shaping our future.