MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) On the 14th anniversary of George McGovern’s death, his legacy remains part of Mitchell’s history through his military service, political career and efforts to fight hunger, with the McGovern Library and Legacy Museum preserving his story for future generations.
McGovern died Oct. 21, 2012, at age 90. Born in Avon on July 19, 1922, he grew up in Mitchell and attended Dakota Wesleyan University before entering military service. After the war, he returned to graduate in 1946 and later taught history and government at DWU.
During World War II, McGovern flew 35 combat missions as a B-24 bomber pilot, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross. His recollections are preserved by the National WWII Museum.
He represented South Dakota in the U.S. House from 1957 to 1961 and the Senate from 1963 to 1981. As the 1972 Democratic presidential nominee, he opposed the Vietnam War and challenged President Richard Nixon, who won reelection.
McGovern also directed President John F. Kennedy’s Food for Peace program and worked with Republican Sen. Bob Dole to advance international school feeding efforts.
Throughout his public life, McGovern maintained a deep connection to the community where he grew up.
“I still love to go back to Mitchell and wander up and down those streets. It reassures me that there is a place that I know thoroughly, where the roots are deep,” McGovern said.
In Mitchell, the George and Eleanor McGovern Library at DWU provides a lasting connection to that history. Dedicated Oct. 7, 2006, the library honors both McGoverns and their public service.
The building houses the McGovern Legacy Museum, which explores their lives, alongside academic resources and university archives. The McGovern Collection preserves materials documenting the senator’s life and career. Together, the library, museum and archives give students, researchers and visitors a place to explore a public life rooted in Mitchell.
