SDPB Homefront at the Smith-Zimmermann Heritage Museum!

SDPB hosted a preview screening of THE WAR at the museum on the 6th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, and those incidents brought to mind the sudden and deliberate attack on Pearl Harbor 66 years earlier. An attentive crowd of nearly 70 joined us for the event. We were fortunate to record the stories of four World War Two veterans who willingly shared their stories, as well as a vast array of memorabilia.

The Smith-Zimmermann Heritage Museum in Madison was decked out in military splendor. Cindy Bilka displayed material and mementos from soldiers, sailors and airmen who served during the war from the Madison area. Included was the extensive collection of memorabilia from the Dragseth family. There was also a display of photographs of veterans from the area who served during World War Two, and the uniforms that they wore. To top it off, Cindy Bilka used a pattern for a 1940's-era dress, sewed it and wore it as an homage to the women of the 1940's.
South Dakota Public Broadcasting was proud to work with such fine organizations as the Lake County Historical Association and the Smith-Zimmermann Heritage Museum. A special thank you to Cindy Bilka, Museum Curator, and John Nelson, President of the Historical Association. When you're in Madison, stop by for a visit. The museum is located on the Dakota State University campus. Their website is here: (more)