Cities and Towns in Hughes County, South Dakota
Founded in 1880, Hughes County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Hughes County was formed from Buffalo County. The city of Pierre is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Hughes County has a population of 17,694 and area of 741 square miles (1,919 km²).
List of all cities in Hughes County, SD alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Ames, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Blunt, SD | 57522 | 605 |
Canning, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Degray, SD | 57522 | 605 |
Eakin, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Fairbank, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Francis, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Harrold, SD | 57536 | 605 |
Joe Creek, SD | 57536 | 605 |
Oahe, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Okobojo, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Pierre, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Rousseau, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Wendt, SD | 57501 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Hughes County, South Dakota
Pierre
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Approximately 13.1 square miles
- Population: Around 14,100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 57501
- Latitude: 44.3683° N
- Longitude: 100.3500° W
Location and History
Pierre, the capital city of South Dakota and the county seat of Hughes County, is located on the eastern bank of the Missouri River in central South Dakota. Established in 1880, Pierre became the state capital in 1889 due to its central location and access to river transportation. Named after Pierre Chouteau Jr., a prominent fur trader, the city developed as a hub for government, trade, and agriculture. Its history is deeply tied to the Missouri River and the indigenous peoples who lived in the region long before European settlement.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pierre is served by the Pierre School District, including T.F. Riggs High School, which offers strong academic and extracurricular programs. Landmarks include the South Dakota State Capitol, an architectural gem surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails, and the Cultural Heritage Center, which highlights the state’s rich history. The nearby Oahe Dam and Lake Oahe provide ample recreational opportunities, such as fishing, boating, and camping, making Pierre a vibrant city that blends history, governance, and outdoor adventure.
Blunt
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Approximately 0.6 square miles
- Population: Around 350 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 57522
- Latitude: 44.5189° N
- Longitude: 99.9861° W
Location and History
Blunt, located east of Pierre in Hughes County, was established in the 1880s during the expansion of the Chicago and North Western Railway. The town was named after John E. Blunt, a railway official. Blunt developed as a small agricultural community, supporting the surrounding wheat and cattle farming areas. The town retains its historical charm, reflecting its origins as a railroad and farming hub.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students in Blunt attend schools in Pierre or nearby communities. Key landmarks include the historic Blunt City Hall, which serves as a focal point for community events, and the surrounding farmland that highlights the town’s agricultural roots. Blunt’s proximity to the Missouri River provides additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing and hiking.
Harrold
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Approximately 0.4 square miles
- Population: Around 125 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 57536
- Latitude: 44.5236° N
- Longitude: 99.7311° W
Location and History
Harrold, a small town in western Hughes County, was established in the late 19th century as a stop along the Chicago and North Western Railway. Named after a railroad official, Harrold grew as a center for agricultural activity in the region. Its location in the heart of the prairie made it an important hub for grain storage and livestock operations.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students from Harrold attend schools in nearby Pierre. Landmarks include the Harrold Grain Elevator, a symbol of the town’s agricultural history, and the Harrold Community Hall, which hosts local gatherings and events. The expansive prairie surrounding Harrold provides scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities such as birdwatching and hunting, reflecting the rural charm of Hughes County.