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Cloud Climber
We can always count on the wind blowing through the prairie. It’s an everyday part of life. Although invisible, wind influences how we see the prairie. It blows around the clouds, provides a source for energy, and shows us how it affects all aspects of the environment.
In this exhibit, visitors can climb through the clouds, watch the famous Hurley windmill turn, and get a great view of the rest of the Museum prairie.
Maneuvering through the museum’s Cloud Climber, a multi-level climbing structure is an experience in safe risk-taking and adventure!
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Sod House
The Europeans who moved to South Dakota in the 1800s lived in houses similar to the Sod House on our indoor prairie. They didn’t find many trees on the prairie, so they built their homes from what was available – the thick prairie soil, or sod. In the Sod House, visitors can stay warm by the stove, make pork chops and eggs, and wash and hang laundry.
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Tipi
The Dakota people who settled the prairie in South Dakota made tipis from tall wooden poles covered with buffalo hides. The tipi on our Museum prairie resembles a Dakota home from the 1800s, lightweight and portable and a good home for people on the move.
Near the tipi is a space to learn the art of traditional hoop dance from Native American Hoop Dancer and Storyteller Dallas Chief Eagle. Grab a hoop and follow along!
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The Prairie Farm
Many hands make light work on the Prairie Farm. Start your day by feeding the animals in the barn. Then, plant or gather vegetables from the garden rows to take to the Market Fresh Grocery.
Help move food from the farm to the market. The large-scale conveyer belt encourages teamwork and cooperation.
As children work on the farm, they learn about daily chores, caring for animals, and working hard to grow vegetables. The Prairie Farm helps visitors understand from where some of our daily food comes and how it gets to the market. Caring for the land and the animals builds respect for nature and our environment.