In this episode of History 605, Ben Jones and Braeden Kluver discuss Dakota Territory Governors John Pennington, William Howard, and Nehemiah Ordway. They walk through the story about the origins of the state's penitentiary, its colleges, and the beginnings of the political push for statehood.

Ben and Braeden share the trials, tribulations, and the cast of colorful characters who served as Dakota Territory Governors. In this first of at least two episodes, they cover Governors Jayne, Edmunds, Faulk, and Burbank during the turbulent first years of the Territory.

As Tribal nations gather to mark the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Little Bighorn, History 605 highlights a major new book from SDHS Press by historian Sandy Barnard exploring a century and a half of commemorations. Then, we dive into our archives to replay our fascinating 2021 conversation on the brilliant, deeply controversial life and legacy of General George Armstrong Custer.

What did the earliest Independence Day celebrations look like in South Dakota? On this episode of History 605, we dive into the archives to explore a fascinating era, which brought together a diverse cast of historical figures. Long before they shaped the future of the state.

Professor Brad Birzer joins us to discuss his new book, "The Declaration of Independence: A Radical Experiment in Liberty." We discussed the, "long train of abuses" that led up to the colonies deciding to declare their separation from Britain. Brad also shares how Jefferson took all the ideas to beautifully express the American mind, along with the compelling list of grievances against the king that still make Americans mad! Brad reveals how the signers gained their ideas from the ancients and were working to conserve them even if it meant beginning a violent revolution to do so.

Historian Paul Finkelman joins the History 605 Podcast to discuss his essay on the legal proceedings that led up to the nation's largest mass execution in December of 1862.

On this episode of History 605, Craig Fehrman discusses his new book, using the biographies of Jefferson, Lewis, Clark, Sacagawea, and others to illuminate the expedition through multiple perspectives. By weaving together these viewpoints, he offers a vivid account that clarifies key decisions, highlights the American Indian perspective, and deepens understanding of the expedition’s lasting impact.

Jim Williams, Executive Director of Deadwood History, joins History 605 to talk about the Days of ’76 Museum and the organization’s work to commemorate both Deadwood’s 150th anniversary and the nation’s upcoming 250th.

On a frigid November day in 1952, Wilmot, SD native Royce Williams made split‑second decisions in the skies off North Korea that were worthy of the Medal of Honor but were buried in secrecy due to intense international tensions. After the mission was declassified and veterans rallied with Congressional support, he finally received the recognition he deserved in February 2026.

The USS South Dakota Battleship Memorial has honored the bravery and service of the ship’s WWII crew since the 1960s, preserving the legacy of sailors who endured some of the war’s most intense combat. When the Navy planned to scrap the vessel after the war, a dedicated Sioux Falls group stepped in to ensure its story lived.