Our Mission:

To collect, preserve, document, exhibit, research, study and interpret objects relating to natural and cultural history, primarily of South Dakota; and to provide interpretive exhibitions, educational programs, publications and other appropriate means of conveying an understanding and appreciation of this region.

Located next to the DakotaDome on the University of South Dakota campus, the W. H. Over Museum was founded in 1883.

Admission is free. 

W.H. Over Museum

Our collections include fossils, botanical and biological (natural) specimens, and cultural items related to the history of inhabitants of South Dakota and the Upper Northern Plains including Indigenous and land seeker histories. Learn more.

Gift Shop

At our Gift Shop, visitors can shop handcrafted items made by local Native American artisans, bead supplies, books, and more.

The majority of over 60,000 items in the collection were donated. Many items reside in our extensive vaults while others are integral parts of exhibits open to the public. Items in the collection can be used by researchers within and outside the State of South Dakota.