Rapid City, SD – As the city marks its 150th anniversary, the Rapid City Historic Preservation Commission, in partnership with The Journey Museum, is calling on longtime residents to help preserve the community’s visual heritage. The “Picture Our Past” event will take place on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the museum’s downtown location on 222 New York St.
How to participate
Anyone with family photographs taken in 1976 or earlier may bring up to three images to the museum. Organizers are especially interested in pictures that capture historic homes, notable buildings, street signs, distinctive architecture, and city landscapes that illustrate how Rapid City’s neighborhoods have evolved.
On‑site staff will scan each photograph, provide a printed copy to the owner, and immediately upload a high‑resolution digital version to the museum’s permanent collection. Those digital files will also be plotted on an interactive online map, allowing viewers to see exactly where each scene was captured.
Why the project matters
Preserving these personal snapshots serves a dual purpose. First, it safeguards memories that might otherwise be lost as families move, homes are renovated, or older generations pass on. Second, the growing digital archive will give future generations a tangible sense of Rapid City’s growth, reinforcing community pride and continuity.
“Our city’s story is written not just in official records but in the everyday lives of its people,” said Jennifer Bergstrom, Community Development Special Projects Planner. “By sharing their photographs, residents become active participants in documenting the legacy of the Black Hills region for the next 150 years and beyond.”
Additional contributions
Residents with larger collections who wish to contribute more than three images are encouraged to contact Bergstrom directly at 605‑394‑4120, ext. 2339. The commission will work with donors to arrange additional scanning sessions or to receive digital files electronically.
About the celebration
The “Picture Our Past” event is one of many activities planned for Rapid City’s sesquicentennial year. Other festivities include historic walking tours, a downtown fireworks display, and a series of lectures on the city’s founding families. Together, these programs aim to highlight the resilience and spirit that have defined Rapid City since its incorporation in 1876.
Community members interested in learning more about the event or other anniversary activities can visit The Journey Museum’s website or follow the city’s official social‑media channels.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
