69 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about South Dakota

69 Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about South Dakota, South Dakota situated in the Midwestern region of the United States, holds the distinction of being the 46th most populous and the 17th most extensive state among the 50 states. The state achieved statehood on November 2, 1889, marking its entrance as the 40th state to join the Union.

Statehood and Borders

South Dakota shares its borders with six neighboring states: Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wyoming. This central location grants it a diverse geographical context and unique interactions with its adjacent regions.

Nicknames and Counties

Known by various nicknames such as the Coyote State, Land of Infinite Variety, Mount Rushmore State, and Sunshine State, South Dakota encompasses a total of 66 counties, each contributing to the state’s cultural and geographic tapestry.

Capital

The state capital of South Dakota is Pierre, a city with historical significance and administrative importance within the region. Pierre stands as a testament to the state’s rich heritage and governmental functions.

Interesting and Unique Fun Facts about South Dakota

1. Statehood Shuffle

Upon President Benjamin Harrison’s approval on November 2, 1889, South Dakota and North Dakota were admitted as states to the Union. The historical documentation of which state was incorporated first remains uncertain as Harrison randomly signed the bills, with North Dakota conventionally acknowledged as the primary entry in the records.

2. Lewis and Clark Expedition

South Dakota witnessed two notable visits by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 1804, the expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark made their first appearance in South Dakota. During their return journey in 1806, they traversed the region, exploring and documenting their experiences as they moved eastward.

3. Indigenous Roots

Dating back approximately 13,000 years ago, the first known inhabitants settled in the region now known as South Dakota. Over millennia, various Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne, Ponca, Lakota, Dakota, and Arikara, established enduring communities, cultivating rich cultural traditions and practices.

4. Subterranean Wonders

South Dakota is home to the third-longest cave system globally, located west of Custer, known as the Jewel Cave system, showcasing a labyrinth of captivating geological formations awaiting exploration.

5. Wind Caves: Underground Enigma

Situated approximately 11 miles north of Hot Springs, the Wind Caves present over 32 miles of mapped passages, offering enthusiasts a fascinating underground adventure.

6. Mighty Missouri River

The Missouri River, the state’s largest and longest river, traverses South Dakota, holding significant geographical and historical importance in the region’s landscape and heritage.

7. Geographic Division: East River and West River

South Dakota is uniquely divided by the Missouri River, creating two distinct regions termed “East River” and “West River.” These regions exhibit diverse geographical features and cultural characteristics.

8. Sioux Nation

South Dakota is home to three major divisions of the Sioux Nation: Dakota, Lakota, and Nakota tribes. These tribes hold significant historical and cultural importance in the state, contributing to its diverse heritage.

9. Meaning of Dakota

The term “Dakota” originates from the Sioux language, signifying notions of friendliness or alliances. It represents the indigenous heritage and historical roots of the region, encapsulating the friendly and interconnected nature of the Native American tribes.

10. European Arrival

In 1743, the Verendrye brothers, acting on behalf of France, became the earliest recorded Europeans to lay claim to the land that is now South Dakota. Their arrival marked the initial contact between European explorers and the territory.

11. Gold Rush Era

The discovery of gold in the Black Hills region in 1874 triggered a gold rush, attracting a surge of fortune seekers and prospectors to the area. Within a short span, more than 10,000 individuals settled in the Black Hills, significantly altering the region’s demographic landscape.

12. The Dakota Boom

The Dakota Boom commenced in 1878, witnessing a rapid influx of settlers vying to secure land as the railroad expansion accelerated across the state. This period marked a significant chapter in South Dakota’s history of rapid settlement and development.

13. USS South Dakota

The USS South Dakota battleship earned distinction during World War II for its exceptional performance, accumulating 13 battle stars and receiving Navy Unit Commendations. Its remarkable service during the war solidified its status as the most decorated battleship of the conflict.

14. Fort Pierre Settlement

Fort Pierre holds historical significance as the first permanent white settlement in South Dakota. Its establishment, primarily driven by the fur trading industry, laid the foundation for subsequent settlements, contributing significantly to the state’s historical narrative.

15. Homestake Mine

The Homestake Mine, operational until 2002, held a prestigious position as the longest and deepest gold-producing mine in North America. Its extensive history in gold mining played a pivotal role in shaping South Dakota’s mining industry.

16. Agricultural Leadership

South Dakota boasts a thriving agricultural sector, leading the nation in bison and pheasant production. Agriculture contributes substantially to the state’s economy, accounting for about one-third of its total economic activity, signifying its pivotal role in the state’s development and prosperity.

17. Historical Marvel: Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, situated in the Black Hills, serves as the iconic monument featuring colossal sculptures of former U.S. presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Each face symbolizes distinct phases in America’s historical journey—Washington, the nation’s birth; Jefferson, its growth; Lincoln, preservation; and Roosevelt, development.

18. Monumental Carving Process

Approximately 450,000 tons of rock were meticulously removed to craft these monumental carved heads. This landmark draws over 2 million visitors annually, solidifying its status as one of the most frequented tourist spots in the United States.

19. Origin of the Mountain’s Name

Mount Rushmore derives its name from Charles E. Rushmore, a New York lawyer who, in 1884, ventured to the Black Hills to assess mining claims in the area, thereby leaving a lasting legacy tied to the monument.

20. Sculptural Evolution

Initially, the blueprint for Mount Rushmore intended to feature the presidents from head to waist. However, following sculptor Gutzon Borglum’s demise and amidst World War II, funding constraints altered the project’s scope, resulting in the completion of the sculptures as faces only.

21. State Nicknames and Trivia

South Dakota’s former state flag, adopted in 1909, bore the nickname “Sunshine State,” later shared with Florida. However, in 1992, South Dakota embraced a new moniker: the “Rushmore State,” signifying its connection to the iconic monument.

22. Abundance of Shorelines

Surprisingly, South Dakota boasts more shoreline than the entire expanse of Florida. This distinction arises from the state’s numerous rivers and water bodies, notably the Missouri, Cheyenne, James, Grande, Moreau, among others, contributing to its extensive shoreline.

23. Eastern Region: Fertile Lands and Population

The eastern part of the state boasts fertile soils that contribute significantly to the cultivation of various crops. Moreover, this area is home to the majority of South Dakota’s population centers.

24. Western Region: Tourism and Ranching Economy

In contrast, the western region relies heavily on tourism and defense activities for its economic sustenance. Ranching also holds a prominent position in the agricultural landscape of this area.

25. Black Elk Peak: Pinnacle of Elevation

Black Elk Peak, nestled in the Black Hills, stands as the highest point in South Dakota east of the Rocky Mountains, soaring impressively to an elevation of 7,242 feet.

26. Rose Quartz: Geological Treasure
Declared the official State Mineral in 1966, the discovery of Rose Quartz near Custer in the 1880s highlights South Dakota’s geological richness and unique mineral diversity.

27. Adapted Avian Ambassador: Ring-Necked Pheasant
The ring-necked pheasant, an immigrant bird species from China, found a welcoming home in South Dakota, earning its distinction as the state bird due to its successful integration into the local environment.

28. Houdek Soil: Agricultural Backbone
Designated the official State Soil in 1990, the fertile Houdek soil plays a pivotal role in South Dakota’s agricultural landscape, serving as a cornerstone for the state’s farming practices.

29. Innovative Minds: Notable Inventions
South Dakota boasts a lineage of inventors: Ernest Lawrance from Canton pioneered the cyclotron in 1931 for scientific experimentation, while Raven Industries in Sioux Falls contributed significantly to the development of hot air balloons since the 1950s.

30. The Badlands: Fossil-Rich Wonderland

West of the state, the Badlands have earned global recognition for possessing one of the world’s richest fossil beds. These lands have unearthed remains of ancient creatures such as saber-toothed cats, prehistoric horses, and marine animals from a bygone era. Encompassing 244,000 acres, Badlands National Park stands as a testament to this rich prehistoric legacy.

31. Mammoth Site and Fossil Discoveries

The Badlands feature the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, a pivotal site with the highest concentration of fossil remains globally. Discovered serendipitously in 1974 during land development, this site offers profound insights into the ancient world, capturing the attention of paleontologists worldwide.

32. Notable T. rex Fossil “Sue”

South Dakota proudly houses one of the most extensive and well-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex fossils, famously named “Sue.” Discovered in 1990 by paleontologist Sue Hendrickson, this remarkable find has significantly contributed to paleontological studies.

33. Extreme Temperature Extremes

The state has witnessed extreme temperature fluctuations, experiencing scorching highs of 120 degrees Fahrenheit on July 15, 2006, and bone-chilling lows of -58 degrees Fahrenheit on February 17, 1936. South Dakota ranks as the 39th warmest state in the United States based on historical temperature data.

34. Historic Orpheum Theatre

The city of Sioux Falls houses the historic Orpheum Theatre Center, dating back to its inauguration in 1913. This cherished theater remains an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, hosting various live events and preserving its historical significance.

35. Annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup

Marking a celebration of South Dakota’s rich heritage and natural splendor, the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup takes place on the last Friday of September in the captivating Black Hills. This event attracts visitors from near and far, offering a captivating glimpse into the state’s cultural heritage and majestic landscapes.

36. Majestic Corn Palace Revival
Annually, Mitchell’s Corn Palace is gloriously adorned with corn and vibrant grain murals, a tradition dating back to 1892. Renowned as the world’s only corn palace, this spectacle entices over 500,000 visitors every year, showcasing unique artistic expressions.

37. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Culture
Originating in 1938 through the initiative of Indian bikers, the Sturgis motorcycle rally remains an iconic annual event in Sturgis, dedicated to fostering tourism in the captivating Black Hills region.

38. Flavorsome Food Festivals
South Dakota hosts vibrant food festivals, such as the Chislic Festival in Freeman and the Sioux Empire Fair in Sioux Falls, offering a delightful feast for locals and attracting food enthusiasts from afar.

39. Quirky Mashed Potato Wrestling Tradition
As part of Clark’s Potato Day Festival, an unusual tradition of mashed potato wrestling captivates attendees, marking an unconventional yet entertaining South Dakota tradition.

40. Flaming Fountain’s Peculiar Illumination
The Flaming Fountain at State Capital Lake uses water from an artesian gas well, creating a distinct luminous effect through its gas content, adding a unique touch to South Dakota’s landmarks.

41. The Legendary Haunts of Bullock Hotel
Established in 1896 by former sheriff Sed Bullock, the Bullock Hotel in Deadwood carries a legacy as one of the state’s oldest hotels, encompassing tales of potential hauntings that intrigue many visitors.

42. Eerie Enigma of Sica Hollow State Park
Sica Hollow State Park’s mystique arises from its historical significance, where unfortunate events led to the loss of many Native American lives, contributing to the park’s enigmatic aura.

43. Rodeos: South Dakota’s Heartbeat
Celebrated across the state annually, rodeos embody South Dakota’s official State Sport, uniting generations and fostering a sense of community through thrilling events.

45. Milk: Emblematic State Drink
Recognized as the State Drink since 1986, South Dakotans’ widespread consumption of milk led to its official status, signifying the state’s preference for this wholesome beverage.

46. Kuchen: Culinary Heritage
Since 2000, Kuchen, a delightful pastry featuring a dough crust and custard filling, has held the esteemed title of South Dakota’s State Dessert, signifying a cherished culinary heritage.

47. Revolutionary Innovations: Ejector Seat and Building Management System
Inventors Russel Pohl and Clyde Pritchard, hailing from Sioux Falls, engineered the revolutionary ejector seat in 1969. Additionally, a computer-based building plan management system, a collaborative creation of developers from Sioux Falls and Tripp, transformed the construction industry’s approach to planning and development.

48. Golden Legacy: Black Hills Gold Jewelry
During the mid-1800s, a French goldsmith skillfully crafted exquisite jewelry using gold sourced from South Dakota’s Black Hills, becoming the pioneering jeweler to fashion stunning adornments from this regional gold.

49. Olympic Glory: Athletic Triumphs
William Mervin, born in Pine Ridge, Oglala Lakota, South Dakota, achieved historic acclaim by securing the first American Olympic gold medal in the 10,000-meter race at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games.

50. Name Evolution: Dakota State University
Dakota State University, situated in South Dakota, underwent a series of transformations before settling on its present name in 1989. The university experienced a notable evolution, going through a total of eight different names before finally adopting its current title. These name changes reflect the institution’s historical journey and evolution over the years.

51. Pierre: One of the Smallest State Capitals
Pierre, located centrally within South Dakota, is distinguished by its status as one of the smallest state capitals in the United States. Despite its small size, Pierre serves as the capital city of South Dakota, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and government functions in a compact setting.

52. Tiny Cottonwood: A Town of Ten
Cottonwood stands out as one of the tiniest towns in South Dakota, notably characterized by its remarkably small population. This small, close-knit community, nestled in Jackson County, boasts a mere ten residents, contributing to its distinct and intimate atmosphere.

53. Sioux Falls: The Divorce Capital
Sioux Falls, South Dakota, gained historical notoriety as the “Divorce Capital” during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This reputation stemmed from the city’s permissive divorce laws, which attracted individuals seeking swift and relatively uncomplicated divorce proceedings, earning Sioux Falls its distinctive title.

54. Nobel Laureate and Scientific Achievement
Ernest Lawrence, another luminary from Canton, South Dakota, clinched the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939, underscoring his profound contributions to the field of physics.

55. Medical Pioneer: Alton Ochsner
Alton Ochsner, a distinguished South Dakota doctor born in Kimball in 1896, is renowned for his groundbreaking discovery, linking tobacco smoke to lung cancer, significantly impacting public health awareness.

56. City of Presidential Statues: Rapid City’s Tribute
Rapid City proudly hosts life-sized bronze statues of every U.S. president on its streets, a privately-funded initiative inaugurated in 2000. This homage to American presidency commemorates the legacy of each president through stunning bronze sculptures.

57. Historical Thatched Structure: Anne Hathaway Cottage
Nestled near Wessington Springs, the Anne Hathaway Cottage remains the sole structure in the Midwest adorned with a thatched roof, symbolizing a piece of historical architectural uniqueness.

58. Epic Tribute: The Unfinished Crazy Horse Memorial
The awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial, a monumental rock carving, remains unfinished even after more than 70 years. Upon completion, estimated dimensions project it to stand 563 feet high and span 641 feet in length, depicting a Native American warrior on horseback.

59. Korczak Ziolkowski’s Legacy
Initiated by Korczak Ziolkowski, the colossal carving remains a testament to his vision despite his passing. His family continues his legacy, adhering to his deliberate pace, ensuring the memorial’s meticulous creation over time.

60. Butterfly Haven: Biodiversity Richness
South Dakota’s natural beauty includes over 175 diverse butterfly species, enhancing the state’s rich ecological diversity.

61. Native Venomous Species: Prairie Rattlesnake
The Prairie rattlesnake, South Dakota’s sole native venomous snake, predominantly thrives in open grasslands, occasionally venturing into wooded areas, embodying the region’s unique wildlife.

62. Black Widow Spider: Potent Venom
South Dakota is home to the black widow spider, characterized by its venomous bite and distinguished by a red hourglass mark on the abdomen. Notably, only the female black widow of this species carries venom.

63. Brown Recluse Spider: Venomous Intruder
Although not native to South Dakota, the brown recluse, known for its potent venom, can occasionally be found within the state, presenting a potential hazard due to its toxicity.

64. Black-footed Ferret: Endangered Wilderness Resident
Nestled within the Badlands of South Dakota lies the Sage Creek Wilderness, serving as a sanctuary for the black-footed ferret, an endangered species in the United States, striving for conservation efforts in the region.

65. Native Coyotes: Savvy and Indigenous
Coyotes, native to South Dakota, predominantly inhabit the Black Hills area and areas near the Missouri River. Revered by Native Tribes for their intelligence and resourcefulness, coyotes hold a significant place in local folklore.

66. Historical Sawdust Tradition: Deadwood’s Legacy
Originating in Deadwood, South Dakota, the tradition of spreading sawdust on bar floors had dual purposes: initially employed to conceal fallen gold dust during the Gold Rush era and later utilized to absorb and conceal spilled fluids, reflecting a unique historical tradition in the area.

67. Tootsie, the Singing Coyote
In the mid-1900s, Tootsie, an abandoned coyote pup, captivated the hearts of South Dakotans with her unique talent for “singing.” This charming coyote garnered attention across the state for her melodious howls, becoming a beloved figure in local folklore and charming many with her endearing presence.

68. Native American Wojapi Sauce
Wojapi sauce originates from South Dakota and holds deep roots in Native American cuisine. This delectable sauce, crafted from mixed berries, offers a flavorful and traditional addition to various dishes, showcasing the cultural richness and culinary heritage of the region’s indigenous communities.

69. Beloved Zebra Doughnuts
Zebra doughnuts have held a special place in the hearts of South Dakotans since the 1940s. These marbled confections, fried to perfection, coated with glaze, and dipped in tantalizing chocolate frosting, have been a cherished treat, enticing locals with their delightful taste and unique visual appeal.

South Dakota Flag: Symbolism, Evolution, and Proposed Redesigns

Design and Symbolism	The flag of South Dakota celebrates natural resources, agriculture, commerce, and industry from the state’s early years of statehood. It features a modified state seal on a sky-blue field with golden triangles resembling sun rays. The seal includes images of a rural landscape, such as hills, mining operations, a river with a boat, a farmer plowing with horses, and grazing cattle. Surrounding the seal are the words “South Dakota” and the nickname “The Mount Rushmore State.” The border contains the words “State of South Dakota,” “Great Seal,” and “1889” (the year of statehood). The seal also bears the motto “Under God, The People Rule.”
Adoption	South Dakota adopted the current flag on November 9, 1992. The original design was created by Ida Anding.
Technical Details	The flag follows a 3:5 proportion. The gold text for the state name and nickname should be in capital sans-serif font.
History	– The State Seal: The Great Seal and state motto were suggested by Dr. Joseph Ward in 1885. It was adopted by the Constitutional Convention delegates. Later, the seal’s colors were established, and a new painted version was created in 1986. – The State Flag: In 1909, Ida Anding designed the first official flag with a blazing sun and blue background. In 1963, a cost-saving redesign merged the blazing sun and seal on a blue background. The text was changed to “The Mount Rushmore State” in 1992.
Flag Replacement	In 2012, Rep. Bernie Hunhoff proposed a new flag design based on Dick Termes’ artwork, featuring a stylized sun with rays and three concentric circles. The bill aimed to create a flag commission for public submissions but faced deferment, halting its progress.

Exploring South Dakota: Key Facts, State Symbols, and Notable Details

State Abbreviation	SD
State Capital	Pierre
Largest City	Sioux Falls
State Size	Total (Land + Water): 77,117 sq miles; Land Only: 75,885 sq miles
Population	909,824 (Estimate July 1, 2022)
Statehood	November 2, 1889
State Rank by Population	46th
State Rank by Date of Formation	40th
State Rank by Area	17th
Number of Counties	66
Demonym	South Dakotan
Bordering States	Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wyoming
Official Language	English
Highest Point	Black Elk Peak – 7,244 ft (2208 m)
Lowest Point	Big Stone Lake on Minnesota border – 968 ft (295 m)
Length	380 miles (610 km)
Width	210 miles (340 km)
Governor	Kristi Noem (R)
Lieutenant Governor	Larry Rhoden (R)
Electoral Votes	3
State Motto	“Under God the people rule”
State Nickname	Mount Rushmore State; Coyote State
% Water	1.7
Noble Prize Winners	Ernest Lawrence (Physics, 1939), Theodore W. Schultz (Economic Sciences, 1979)
Famous People	Norm Van Brocklin (Pro Football player), January Jones (Actress)

State Symbols:

• State Flag:
• State Animal: Coyote
• State Bird: Ring-necked pheasant
• State Fish: Walleye
• State Flower: American Pasque
• State Fossil: Triceratops
• State Insect: Honeybee
• State Gemstone: Fairburn Agate
• State Jewelry: Black Hills Gold
• State Mineral: Rose Quartz
• State Tree: Black Hills spruce

Geographic Coordinates:

• Longitude: 96° 26′ W to 104° 03′ W
• Latitude: 42° 29′ N to 45° 56′ N

Time Zone:

• Central Time Zone, Mountain Time Zone

State Website:

• www.sd.gov

Area Codes:

• 605

Last updated on November 26, 2023.

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