Tallgrass got to know Dr. Dawn Frank and her incredible staff at Oglala Lakota College (Hey Lance!) through work on the ceremonial dance arbor. This is where the college celebrates their student's hard work every spring as they graduate from the college.
The existing arbor had held steady for years, and was relieved to be torn down in the late winter/early spring of 2025. A new arbor that would last the duration was planned to replace it with some specific requirements in mind:
The traditional Black, Red, Yellow, White roof colors were rearranged according to the correct arrangement.
28 divisions in the circle according to tradition.
Opening to the east for entrance and tradition.
The "Crow's Nest" where the platform for honored positions and the ceremonial walk to receive the diploma is on the north side, with plans for full ADA accessibility and accommodation of a temporary stage for the big day! A temporary Crow's Nest was built for 2025 and a full one is planned.
The circle was enlarged as much as the site would manage.
A master site plan for the area was completed to allow the supporting activities and other events to function well.
Future amphitheater style bleacher seating is planned for several sections under the arbor.
While this project was fairly straight forward there were some cool features that we worked in:
The roof tips down on the front side so that the four colors are visible from within.
A center post and fabric canopy were explored in the design, including some strategy with our friends from the ballooning world.
The height of the canopy was lifted - initially felt high, but now feels welcoming and accommodating now that some of the structures under the canopy are in.
The post detailing is awesome.
Minimal site work was required to get it started, but the full site plan includes new paths, an outdoor amphitheater, outdoor kitchen, and more.
It was especially rewarding to watch the graduation this year (remotely, darn!) and hear the stories of hard work and dedication and family. Seeing the facility in use days after it was complete (enough to use) felt like a relief - we made it! Thanks to TOJ Construction and the OLC Staff who made it happen!