History of the Sioux River Valley
Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. – 2nd floor Law Library
Russ Swanson of Canton, SD will speak to us on his research and investigation of history along the Sioux River Valley, particularly trails and roads that once connected Sioux City to Fort Dakota (Sioux Falls), between 1840 and 1880. While he always had a deep interest in history, he developed a passion for research upon finding documentation that a named Peter Wahl was robbed of his horse at gunpoint by Frank and Jesse James near his place on September 19, 1876. This started an eight-year investigation to determine the exact route of the James Younger Gang’s escape after the Northfield raid on September 7, 1876. His findings lead to a lecture series followed by a book release in 2025 named “A Chase to the Death”. His book will be available for sale for $20 at this presentation with payment via cash, Venmo or credit card.
Please join us for social time and refreshments beginning at 6:30 p.m. We look forward to having you join us!
Follow us on Facebook!
We often post items of interest to other genealogists on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/svgssd
You are also welcome to share ideas, ask questions or share in our discussion items! You do NOT need to be a SVGS member to participate in our Facebook page.
New Contact Info
SVGS has a new email and new phone number:
info@siouxvalleygenealogicalsociety.org
and
605-991-0256
Benefits of our membership
1.
Pathfinder Newsletter
This 3 times a year publication comes to each member via email or postal mail. It is jam packed with updates, member info and national genealogy news.
2.
9 Meetings a year
Most of these speakers provide handouts shared with members only. We provide a variety of topics for our meetings and the information is posted on our website for members only.
3.
Resources galore
Our library, open to all, contains a vast array of research materials such as atlases, family history books, old city directories, obituaries and other society newsletters.
4.
Collaboration with colleagues
Many of our members help one another for free when a brick wall seems impossible in research. You will meet up with folks who understand your genealogy research interest.
5.
Sharing of resources
Our members often share notices of area meetings, state conferences, national conventions, interesting resources and research tips during our meetings.
6.
Research Help
Research help is available. We have several people who can help you with your genealogical research, whether is is getting started or answering a specific question .You may post a question in our Facebook page OR email research@siouxvalleygenealogicalsociety.org for personal assistance.
Sioux Valley Genealogical Society
Serving southeast South Dakota, southwest Minnesota
and northwest Iowa
200 W. 6th St.
Old Courthouse Museum
Sioux Falls, SD, USA 57104
605-991-0256
We are a 501(c)3 non-profit agency.
Our research library is usually open in the afternoons.
Best to call ahead to make sure. It is staffed by volunteers.
Research fees may apply – donations accepted.
