South Dakota, with its vast landscapes and tight-knit communities, offers a perfect backdrop for those who crave both adventure and connection. Janet Kahler, a long-time resident of Rapid City, discovered the richness of her state through a heartwarming journey inspired by South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB)’s segment, Dakota Life. Her travels have not only forged new friendships but also rekindled fond memories of her late husband, Monte.
Janet’s journey began with a conversation with Brad Van Osdel, the Director of Entertainment Content at SDPB. The enthusiasm imparted by this segment led Janet to plan an extensive road trip across South Dakota. Armed with an atlas and a sense of curiosity, she circled 17 towns, determined to unearth their hidden gems.
On her nine-day journey, Janet embraced the open road, stopping at towns such as Mobridge, where she made an unexpected discovery at the Klein Museum. Years earlier, Janet had owned a Wild West Wax Museum in Wall, SD, and to her amazement, she found that the Klein Museum had acquired nine wax figures from her museum after her business ceased operations.
“I was driving along and came across the Klein Museum,” Janet recalls. “It wasn’t on my list, so I decided to check it out. I met Diane there, who was wonderful. Seeing my wax figures again was a delightful surprise. I just said, ‘Oh my gosh!'”
Janet’s route also took her to Springfield, a location filled with personal significance. Her husband Monte attended the Springfield Teachers College in 1959. Here, she sought to find a connection to her past, and what she found was a connection to the community as well. When she arrived at the Springfield Teachers College Museum only to find it locked, a local resident named Matt Huisman came to her aid.
“Matt, who is 85 years old, met me and opened the museum,” says Janet. “He even let me wander around on my own after sharing some of the institution’s history. His kindness was a testament to the hospitality you find in small towns.”
These interludes of human kindness were prevalent throughout Janet’s travels. Whether it was a young man at a gas station who ensured she was heading in the right direction or the numerous friendly faces she encountered, each experience added layers of joy to her adventure.
Janet’s dedication to exploring the nuanced beauty of South Dakota has been recognized by SDPB, where she has been named an ambassador. Her passion for Dakota Life and her extensive travels make her a fitting proponent for the cultural richness of the state.
Under the stewardship of Julie Overgaard, the Executive Director of SDPB, and supported by a dedicated team including Twyla Olson and Cara Hetland, SDPB continues to thrive as a cultural beacon in the state. The programming not only highlights hot spots and historical facets of South Dakota but also resonates deeply with individuals like Janet, offering inspiration and a sense of community.
Looking forward, Janet plans to continue exploring the towns she missed on her first round. “It’s amazing what each episode of Dakota Life can cover in 20 minutes about one town,” she reflects. “I’m thinking one day, maybe next year, I’ll catch some of the little towns I didn’t see and more.”
As South Dakota carries on with its legacy of warm-hearted and welcoming communities, Janet Kahler’s journey serves as a reminder of the unique stories and connections that lay tucked away in its nooks and crannies. Her travels encourage others to explore the road less traveled, discovering their own hidden gems in the land of infinite variety.