John LaBatte: The Battles of New Ulm

Project Details by Fiscal Year
2015 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$220
Fund Source
Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund
Recipient Type
Libraries
Status
Completed
Start Date
August 2015
End Date
August 2015
Activity Type
Education/Outreach/Engagement
Counties Affected
Brown
Brown
Project Overview
Independent historian John LaBatte presented a 75-minute program titled “The Battles of New Ulm,” which covered the two battles of New Ulm that occurred during the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. LaBatte’s PowerPoint presentation discussed in thorough detail the events that unfolded on August 19 and 23, 1862. A Q&A session followed the formal presentation.
Project Details
56
Legal Citation / Subdivision
Laws of Minnesota for 2013 Chapter 137, Article 4, Section 2, Subdivision 4
2015 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$220
Other Funds Leveraged
$776
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

Written surveys were distributed to all attendees. It was expected that a majority of respondents would indicate they:
• gained a greater understanding of the battles of New Ulm.
• have a greater appreciation for critical historical events that continue to shape Minnesota’s
political, economic, social, and community environment today.
• will share a positive review of the program with others.

In addition, library staff would observe a majority of attendees actively engaged in each program by listening attentively, asking questions, and sharing observations. Anecdotal responses from attendees would confirm their enjoyment of the program.

Measurable Outcome(s)

All survey respondents indicated they gained a greater
understanding of the battles of New Ulm and will share a positive review of the program. The vast majority
of respondents indicated the program helped them gain a greater appreciation for critical historical events that continue to shape Minnesota’s political, economic, social, and community environment.

Anecdotal responses included, “Well done – informative, well organized presentation.” “Clear and backed
with data!” and “Important details and good grasp of big picture.”

This librarian observed the audience quietly listening to the presentation, and there was a lively Q&A session following the program. This was part of the U.S.-Dakota War series of events scheduled throughout the week,
and all of the programs were well attended.

Source of Additional Funds

o New Ulm Community Access Television – filmed event for cablecast
o Local businesses and media outlets – publicity
*BCHS funded $496.84 in advertising for Dakota War commemoration week programs. Ads were placed in the Springfield Advance Press, Mankato

Project Manager
First Name
Dayle
Last Name
Zelenka
Organization Name
Traverse des Sioux Library Cooperative
Street Address
1400 Madison Avenue, Suite 622
City
Mankato
State
MN
Zip Code
56002-5488
Phone
507-625-6169
Email
dzelen@tds.lib.mn.us
Administered By
Administered by
Location

1500 Highway 36 West
Roseville, MN 55113-4266

Phone
651-582-8200