Identifier
MA 10
Dates
1904-1999
Extent
1.0 linear feet [1 record box]
Abstract
The South Dakota Dairy Association Records document the organization's efforts to support and promote the state's dairy industry from its founding in 1904 until its 1993 merger with the North Dakota and Minnesota dairy promotion councils to form the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council.
This collection includes administrative records, financial documents, annual reports, meeting minutes, and convention programs, illustrating the association’s role in policy advocacy, industry development, and professional networking. It also features governance materials, contest records, regulatory documents, and memorabilia such as medals and photographs.
These records offer valuable insight into the economic impact of dairy farming in South Dakota and the evolution of industry standards, making them an important resource for researchers in agricultural and rural history.
Historical Note
The South Dakota Dairy Association, founded in 1904, played a key role in advancing the state's dairy industry. It promoted dairy farming practices, supported producers, and contributed to the sector's economic impact. The association was governed by a board including a president, vice-president, and secretary-treasurer, ensuring strategic direction. Since 1976, South Dakota State University has hosted the South Dakota Dairymen’s Conference, later renamed the Dairy and Forage Conference. Annual conventions facilitated industry collaboration and policy discussions. In 1993, the association merged with the North Dakota and Minnesota dairy promotion councils to form the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council.
Content Notes
The South Dakota Dairy Association records document its role in shaping the state’s dairy industry from the early 1900s to the early 2000s. This collection includes ledgers, administrative materials, financial records, and publications that provide insight into the association’s governance, advocacy, and industry impact. Annual reports, meeting minutes, and convention programs spanning a century highlight efforts to promote dairy farming practices, support producers, and establish industry standards.
Significant materials include governance documents such as the association’s constitution, amendments, and certificate of incorporation, as well as financial records detailing operations and contests. Convention programs from 1911 to 1999, along with reports on industry regulations, illustrate the association’s efforts to foster professional development and policy discussions. The collection also includes medals, photographs, and newspaper clippings, offering a connection to the association’s legacy.
These materials provide valuable context for understanding the evolution of South Dakota’s dairy industry, reflecting broader agricultural trends, economic contributions, and the collaborative efforts that shaped the state’s dairy sector.
SDSU Archives and Special Collections
Ask Us!
If you have questions or would like to schedule a visit, please let us know.
Language
English
Publisher
South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, Brookings, South Dakota.
Rights
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 Copy-right Act. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright, privacy, publicity, trademark, and other applicable rights for their intended use. Obtaining all necessary permis-sions 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.
Recommended Citation
SDSU Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, "South Dakota Dairy Association Records" (2025). Archives Finding Aids. 10.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/archives_finding_aids/10
