Pettigrew Home & Museum | Sioux Falls

Location and Historical Significance

The Pettigrew Home & Museum is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and is a historic house museum dedicated to preserving the life and legacy of Senator Richard F. Pettigrew, one of South Dakota’s most influential early political figures. Built in 1889, the home exemplifies late 19th-century architecture and reflects the personal and professional achievements of Pettigrew, who served as a U.S. Senator during the state’s formative years. The house provides a window into the social, political, and cultural life of Sioux Falls during that era.

Architectural Features

The Pettigrew Home is a two-story structure showcasing Victorian-era design with Queen Anne influences. Notable architectural elements include intricate woodwork, decorative trim, large bay windows, and a prominent front porch. Inside, visitors can explore original rooms preserved with period furnishings, decorative wallpapers, and ornate fireplaces. The house’s layout reflects both the domestic lifestyle and social expectations of affluent families in the late 1800s.

Museum Collections and Exhibits

The museum contains a variety of artifacts related to Senator Pettigrew’s life, South Dakota history, and local culture. Exhibits include personal belongings, political memorabilia, photographs, documents, and furniture from the period. Visitors can view Pettigrew’s library, which contains original books and manuscripts, and explore rooms arranged to reflect the home’s original domestic and social functions. Rotating exhibits often focus on regional history, pioneer life, and Sioux Falls’ development.

Educational Programs and Public Engagement

The Pettigrew Home & Museum offers guided tours that provide detailed narratives about Senator Pettigrew, his political career, and the broader history of Sioux Falls. Educational programs cater to school groups, history enthusiasts, and community members, often including workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities. Special events, such as heritage days and holiday-themed tours, allow visitors to experience the home in a historically immersive way.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

A typical visit lasts 1–2 hours, allowing ample time to explore the rooms, examine artifacts, and appreciate the architecture. The museum offers an intimate and reflective atmosphere, with the quiet elegance of the home complemented by well-curated exhibits. On-site amenities include informational brochures, guided tours led by knowledgeable staff, and a small gift area featuring local history books and memorabilia.

Highlights and Atmosphere

Visitors often remark on the authenticity of the period furnishings, the intricacy of the woodwork, and the sense of stepping back into Sioux Falls’ late 19th-century society. The Pettigrew Home & Museum offers a blend of personal history, architectural beauty, and regional heritage, making it a meaningful destination for anyone interested in the political and social history of South Dakota.