Ben Reifel Papers

The Ben Reifel Papers document the life and career of Benjamin Reifel (1906–1990), the first Lakota Sioux elected to the U.S. Congress. Born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota, Reifel's early career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and distinguished military service in World War II laid the foundation for his leadership in Native American affairs. Earning advanced degrees from Harvard, he played key roles in shaping federal Indian policy before being elected to Congress in 1960 as a conservative Republican. During his five terms, Reifel championed issues such as Indian education, farm policy, and civil rights, contributing to the establishment of the National Endowment for the Humanities and securing the Earth Resources Observation Systems center for South Dakota. Following his retirement in 1970, he remained active in public service, holding leadership roles with the National Capital Planning Commission and serving as interim Commissioner of Indian Affairs. The collection includes correspondence, photographs, audiovisual materials, memorabilia, and scrapbooks that provide insight into Reifel’s extensive public service and advocacy. It highlights his work with organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America and the South Dakota Art Museum, as well as his efforts to promote Native American economic and social development. The papers also reflect his personal achievements, including numerous awards and honorary doctorates. This collection serves as a valuable resource for understanding Reifel’s impact on public policy, his contributions to Native American communities, and his legacy in South Dakota’s political and cultural landscape.