In an extraordinary contribution to the nation’s 250th anniversary, South Dakota has chosen to encapsulate its unique heritage and vision through a special edition of This Far Country, an epic poem by local poet Joseph Bottum. Celebrated as a quintessential representation of the United States’ semiquincentennial, the book finds its home in America’s Time Capsule, a prestigious initiative aimed at preserving the nation’s rich tapestry for generations yet to come.
Joseph Bottum
Published by the South Dakota Historical Press, This Far Country was selected by America250SD, a dedicated nonpartisan organization behind the state’s 250th anniversary celebrations. Tasked with crafting a narrative that succinctly mirrors South Dakota’s perspective and history, Dr. Ben Jones, Chair of America’s 250th South Dakota, stated, “Given the small dimensions allowed to each state, the commission believed This Far Country encapsulated South Dakota’s unique perspective and so we arranged for a specially designed edition made to fit the space.”
Adding a profound personal touch, the time capsule will also house a letter from South Dakota Governor, Larry Rhoden, and letters from various tribal governments within the state. These written pieces aim to paint a vivid picture of South Dakota’s diverse culture and its peoples’ lived experiences, serving as a heartfelt testament to the state’s commitment to inclusivity and representation.
Larry Rhoden
America’s Time Capsule, designed collaboratively with experts from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Library of Congress, and the National Park Service, epitomizes a nation-wide initiative aimed at preserving a cross-section of American life as it stands at 250 years. This capsule is engineered specifically to endure the test of time, expected to remain buried beneath Philadelphia’s historic grounds until July 4, 2276, at which time it will be uncovered to resonate with a world both familiar and transformed.
Under the gaze of future historians and citizens alike, South Dakota’s contribution will stand not only as a token of its fervent state pride but also as an exhibit of American ideals immortalized through poetry and prose. The resonating themes of This Far Country deftly weave notions of liberty, unity, and resilience—themes that are foundational to both South Dakota’s story and that of the United States.
Dr. Ben Jones
As we reflect upon the significance of South Dakota’s contribution, it’s crucial to not only recognize the literary and historical value this encapsulated artifact holds but also the overarching sentiment it conveys—a binding promise of enduring values that are set to echo throughout the ages. Dr. Jones adds, “When the poem and the letters are opened in 2276, Americans marking the quincentennial will have words from the Governor and This Far Country poem reflecting our experiences living out the principles of the Declaration of Independence.”
The South Dakota Historical Society, along with America250SD, continues to remain steadfast in accentuating not just the historical narrative but also the enduring legacy and values of the people they represent—ensuring South Dakota’s voice continues to find its way into the annals of history, as vibrant and significant as the landscapes that cradle it.