Step back into South Dakota's rich history at the Pettigrew Home & Museum, located at 131 North Duluth Avenue in the Cathedral Historic District of Sioux Falls. Originally built in 1889 by Thomas and Jenny McMartin in the Queen Anne style, this striking two-and-a-half-story red brick and Sioux quartzite building became the residence of Richard Franklin Pettigrew in 1911. Pettigrew was an early member of the Dakota Territory House of Representatives and one of South Dakota's first United States Senators.
Beyond his political career, Pettigrew was an avid traveler, collector, and amateur archaeologist who gathered an eclectic array of items from around the globe. Today, you can visit this historic home turned public museum, operated free of charge by Siouxland Heritage Museums. Inside, you will explore diverse exhibits featuring Native American artifacts and clothing, firearms, animal specimens, walking canes, and local Sioux Falls historical items.
Unique treasures on display include a jar of water from the Jordan River, a piece of the Great Pyramid at Giza, a cane from Queen Liliʻuokalani, and Pettigrew's own indictment for sedition. Discover fascinating stories through these preserved items and Pettigrew's archival papers on local history and politics.
What to see at Pettigrew Home & Museum
- Queen Anne style architecture built with red brick and Sioux quartzite
- Unique global collection featuring part of the Great Pyramid at Giza and Jordan River water
- Native American artifacts and clothing, including items excavated from local burial mounds
- Historical relics including a cane from Queen Liliʻuokalani and Pettigrew's WWI sedition indictment
- Personal archives and library documenting early Sioux Falls history and politics
Visiting tips
Combine your stop with a visit to the sister site, the Old Courthouse Museum, which is also operated free of charge.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Pettigrew Home & Museum is easy to reach on Sioux Falls’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Great Plains Zoo and Terrace Park. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Sioux Falls travel guide.
See the full Sioux Falls travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.