The South Dakota State Historical Society has announced the latest recipients of the Deadwood Fund Grant for the Spring 2026 cycle, with Fort Sisseton State Park headlining a group of eight historic preservation projects across the state. The Deadwood Fund program, which has supported the rehabilitation of South Dakota’s cultural heritage for 30 years, is funded exclusively by a portion of gaming revenue from the City of Deadwood for the administration of historic preservation projects, as required by state law.
In this cycle, Fort Sisseton State Park near Lake City received $15,000 to assist in window preservation for the officer quarters, carpenter’s shop, and blacksmith shop. This grant marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to maintain the structural integrity of the Civil War–era landmark. According to Fort Manager Ali Tonsfeldt, the mission of the site has always been the steady restoration of the fort to protect it for future generations. Tonsfeldt noted that the staff has worked for six years toward this goal and expressed pride that these efforts have been recognized with support that will keep the fort standing strong for years to come.
In addition to the Fort project, the South Dakota State Historical Society also awarded matching grants to seven other vital community projects. In Zeona, the 1923 Immanuel Lutheran Church received $5,000 for steeple and roof repair, while Custer’s Camp Bob Marshall cabins were awarded $15,000 for a roofing project. Canton Lutheran Church received $15,000 for stained-glass repair, and in Mitchell, $15,000 was allocated for structural work at 123 North Main. Additionally, $10,000 grants were awarded to Tabor for porch repairs at the Saint Wenceslaus Church Rectory, to Alcester for roof repairs at the Hyden House, and to Madison for roof work at the Smith House.
“For the past 30 years, this program has served as a great way to encourage restoration or rehabilitation of historic properties across our state,” said Garry Guan, State Historic Preservation Officer. “It is one more way we can promote and preserve our historic and cultural heritage of South Dakota.”
The Deadwood Fund Grant program awards projects annually with two application deadlines: February 1 and October 1. For more information on the Deadwood Fund grant program, contact the State Historic Preservation Office.
