Join us on Thursday, February 16, at 7pm at the RCHS Museum

The US-Dakota War saw the expulsion of the Dakota from Minnesota for generations, and resulted from long growing tensions between settlers and native Dakota peoples. Bishop Whipple had long been an advocate for the Native populations of Minnesota and preached for peace between settlers and Native peoples. When the war broke out Whipple found himself torn and pulled from both sides. Labeled a sympathizer by many, he nevertheless rose to the occasion to aid those in need on both sides. Even after hostilities ended, Whipple continued to rally for the Dakota. This presentation will discuss the actions and advocacy of Bishop Whipple in the time surrounding the war. It will look at Whipple’s religious background, his actions during the conflict, and his later support for the Dakota at the state and national levels.

Dave Nichols is the new Executive Director of the Rice County Historical Society. He has been with RCHS since March of 2020 and prior to that worked with Steele and Goodhue County Historical Societies as a contractor, and Scott County Historical Society as Curator until 2021. He was one of the two leads on the re-visited Bishop Whipple exhibit at RCHS. He has been in the field for 7 years and received his training and degrees from Minnesota State Mankato. 

This program is free for RCHS Members and $5.00 for non-members. Reservations are strongly encouraged. To reserve a spot, please call the museum at 507-332-2121.