Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Title
Date(s)
- 1908-1928 (Creation)
Extent
0.21 linear feet (1 narrow document case)
Name of creator
Administrative history
The Forum, originally established as the Ethical Culture Club in Brookings, South Dakota, in January 1906, began as a Sunday gathering offering a liberal theological alternative to traditional church attendance. On October 14, 1910, the organization was renamed The Forum and transitioned into a space for open discussions on a wide range of topics, such as child labor laws, the establishment of a public library, the promotion of a league to enforce peace, and the adoption of metric measures. Several discussions, such as those advocating for a public library, led to actionable outcomes that benefitted the community.
The Forum attracted members from both the town and the college, with most members affiliated with the college. According to historian William Powers, the group included professionals from diverse fields, including clergy. Membership was limited to men, and all members were expected to contribute by presenting a paper.
The organization was governed by an executive committee comprising a president, vice president, and secretary-treasurer, supported by two standing committees for programs and membership. This governance structure facilitated the club’s mission of fostering intellectual engagement and community-driven initiatives.
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
The Forum and Ethical Culture Club Records documents the activities and history of the Ethical Culture Club and its successor, The Forum, spanning the early 20th century, primarily from 1908 to 1928. It includes the club's constitution, correspondence, programs, and program notes from 1919–1928. Also featured are a 1923 historical account of The Forum, records of Ethical Culture Club meetings (1908–1910), and minutes from The Forum meetings (1919–1928). These materials offer valuable insight into the discussions, values, and intellectual pursuits of these organizations, reflecting their evolution and impact on the community.
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use elements
Conditions governing access
The collection is open for research, but please note that the materials in the Archives do not circulate and can only be used In the SDSU Archives and Special Collections Reading Room.
Please contact us in advance so we can prepare for your visit.
If you cannot visit the Archives in person, please reach out to us. We will do our best to help you find the information you need.
In most cases, the materials in this collection have not been digitized and are not available online.
South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections supports access to the materials in its collections. However, access to some items may be restricted due to their fragile condition, donor agreements, or other considerations.
If you would like to know more about the contents of the collection, please contact the SDSU Archives at:
Information request form: Ask Us! Telephone: 605-688-5094 Email: arcrefs@sdstate.edu
Physical access
Technical access
Conditions governing reproduction
Reproduction of materials from the collection is subject to the following conditions:
- Permission: Written permission must be obtained from the SDSU Archives for any reproduction, publication, or quotation of materials.
- Copyright: Users are responsible for complying with copyright laws and securing any necessary permissions from copyright holders.
- Fragile Materials: Some items may not be reproduced due to their fragile condition.
- Charges: Reproduction charges may apply, and users will be informed of any costs in advance.
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Acknowledgment: Any reproduced material must include proper acknowledgment of the South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections as the source.
For more information or to request permission, please contact the SDSU Archives.
Languages of the material
- English
Scripts of the material
Language and script notes
Finding aids
Uploaded finding aid
Acquisition and appraisal elements
Custodial history
Immediate source of acquisition
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling information
Accruals
Related materials elements
Existence and location of originals
Existence and location of copies
Related archival materials
Related descriptions
Notes element
General note
Copyright and Use Statement In Copyright This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Materials in this collection may be subject to Title 17, Section 108 of the United States Copyright Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, publicity, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permissions is the user's responsibility. Written authorization from the copyright and/or other rights holders is required for publication, distribution, or any use of protected materials beyond what is permitted under fair use.
Specialized notes
Alternative identifier(s)
ID
ID
Description control element
Rules or conventions
Sources used
Access points
Subject access points
Place access points
Name access points
- Ethical Culture Club (Brookings, S.D.) (Subject)
- Powers, William H. (William Howard) 1868-1936 (Subject)
- Forum (Club : Brookings, S.D.) (Subject)