The Siebens legacy , 1988-1997

Sub-Series — Box: 8

Staff Only

Content Description

This sub-series contains drafts of documents related to the Descendants Seminar and to a meeting that was planned for early January 1989, but which does not seem to have occurred due to Siebens' failing health. Also included are obituary and funeral documents, including a speech Briscoe delivered at Siebens' funeral. Additional files include information about the Siebens Den and the proposed library expansion.

Dates

Creation: 1988-1997

Creator

From the Collection: Briscoe, Keith G. (Person)

Historical Note

Siebens wanted his descendants to appreciate the value of hard work and purpose in life, and he wanted to demonstrate this by the example of his life. To that end, he worked with Briscoe to develop a Descendants Seminar, where future generations would visit a designated spot on campus devoted to his memory. This spot later became the Siebens Den. Descendants would read a letter from Siebens and tour the college and Storm Lake, in order to better appreciate where Siebens came from. Descendants were to view photographs and documents that told Siebens' life story and upon completion of these activities, they would receive a certificate. It is understood that this was meant to also be a way for the descendants to share in the financial legacy left to them.