Memory & Commemoration | The U.S.-Dakota War of 1862

"This painting depicts a Dakota man during the Hanblecha, or Vision Quest, where the man is set out on a ledge for four days and four nights in search of his spiritual calling. He is seeking an answer to the troubles of this physical world. It is not uncommon for a man to fall away from this world from lack of food and water and protection from the elements and drift off into the spirit world, where he is given counsel over his new life."

Lyle Miller is an artist and teacher of Dakota and Lakota heritage. He teaches Dakota language and culture classes to elementary students at Crow Creek.

Many commemorative activities have taken place and are planned for the future.

View the film "Dakota 38" by Jim Miller and Smooth Feather Productions about a journey towards healing and reconciliation. 

For more information about the film and to order visit Smooth Feather Productions.

View a commemoration at Fort Snelling. 

Watch Elden Lawrence's story.

Read Governor Mark Dayton’s Statement Commemorating the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862

Watch the 1862 in 2012 Panel Discussion held on November 15, 2012 at the Minnesota Historical Society Annual Meeting.