Alice Smith Prize in Public History

The Alice Smith Prize in Public History honors a public history project completed in the previous calendar year (2024) that contributes to broader public reflection and appreciation of the Midwestern past. The prize is named after the director of research at the Wisconsin Historical Society from 1947 to 1965 who authored six books and numerous articles on the state's history.

Projects by individuals, groups, community organizations, businesses, or other organizations or work done in support of such projects may be nominated. Projects may include, but are not limited to, the following areas: media, exhibits, public programs or written works (such as research reports, brochures, working papers, or historical fiction) that broaden public history understanding. Non-fiction books and journal articles are not eligible for this award. Nominations should be directed to William Hansard, chairperson, william.hansard@dickinsonstate.edu by Jan. 15, 2025

PAST RECIPIENTS

State Historical Society of Iowa - 1980s Farm Crisis

State Historical Society of Iowa - Iowa 175th Anniversary

Rapid City Indian Boarding School Lands Project 

Muslims in Muncie - Elizabeth Agnew

Durham Museum - Women in Omaha

Making History - Kansas City and the Rise of Gay Rights - UMKC Center for Midwestern Studies 

Native American Cultural Trail - Mackinac Island 

HISTORYAPOLIS - Augsburg College History Department 

Photo by Ted Frantz