Cities and Towns in Jerauld County, South Dakota
Founded in 1883, Jerauld County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Jerauld County was formed from Aurora County. The city of Wessington Springs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Jerauld County has a population of 1,636 and area of 530 square miles (1,373 km²).
List of all cities in Jerauld County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alpena, SD | 57312 | 605 |
| Lane, SD | 57358 | 605 |
| Wessington Springs, SD | 57382 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jerauld County, South Dakota
Wessington Springs, South Dakota
Location and History
Wessington Springs is a city located in the northeastern part of Jerauld County, South Dakota, nestled along the shores of the Spring Lake and surrounded by picturesque bluffs and natural springs. The area was first settled in the 1870s, and it became known for its abundant natural springs, which were believed to have medicinal properties. The town was founded in 1882, and it quickly became a popular resort destination for tourists seeking the healing waters of the springs. The natural beauty of the area, combined with the establishment of the Chicago & North Western Railway, helped the town grow during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wessington Springs was officially incorporated in 1894. The town’s economy initially thrived due to its reputation as a spa town, but over the years, it transitioned into a quiet agricultural community. Today, it remains a small town, but its history and natural beauty continue to draw visitors from around the region. Wessington Springs is also home to the Wessington Springs State Park, which is a key feature of the area, attracting hikers, campers, and nature lovers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wessington Springs is served by the Wessington Springs School District, which operates Wessington Springs High School, a well-regarded school with a focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities. The school has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in sports such as basketball, volleyball, and track. In addition to its educational offerings, the town is known for the Wessington Springs State Park, a beautiful natural area that features hiking trails, campgrounds, and the iconic Spring Lake, which is the town’s namesake. The park is home to many scenic overlooks, the restored Historic Carnegie Library, and the spring-fed lake where visitors can enjoy paddle boating and fishing. The town also boasts the Wessington Springs Water Treatment Plant, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its unique architecture. Another notable landmark is the Palisades, a series of striking bluffs that offer stunning views of the town and its surrounding natural beauty. With its blend of history, nature, and small-town charm, Wessington Springs continues to be a destination for tourists and a beloved community for its residents.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: 900 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57382
- Latitude: 44.1213° N
- Longitude: 98.5235° W
Alpena, South Dakota
Location and History
Alpena is a small town located in the southwestern part of Jerauld County, South Dakota. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after Alpena, Michigan, in homage to the settlers’ northern roots. Alpena has long been an agricultural community, with farming and ranching being the primary economic drivers. The town was officially incorporated in 1900, and it developed steadily as a rural service center for surrounding farming communities. Like many small South Dakota towns, Alpena’s economy and social life have historically been tied to the agriculture industry, particularly grain farming and cattle ranching. Although the population of Alpena has declined over the years due to rural depopulation trends, the town remains a vital part of Jerauld County. Over the decades, Alpena has maintained its small-town charm, with a close-knit community and strong agricultural ties. Despite the challenges of rural life, Alpena continues to celebrate its heritage through various community events and gatherings, making it a town with deep historical roots and strong local pride.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alpena is served by the Wessington Springs School District, with students attending school in nearby Wessington Springs. The town does not have its own high school, but the students benefit from a solid academic foundation and extracurricular offerings through the district. Alpena’s landmarks include the town’s charming Main Street area, which features several historic buildings dating back to the early 20th century. Additionally, the surrounding farmland is dotted with old homesteads and barns that reflect the town’s agricultural heritage. While Alpena itself is a small, quiet community, its rural setting provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and exploring the expansive prairies that surround it. The town also has a strong agricultural presence, with farms and ranches contributing to its identity. One of the most significant local landmarks is the nearby Wessington Springs, which is just a short drive away and draws tourists and locals alike for recreation and natural beauty. Though Alpena remains small in population, it is steeped in the traditions of South Dakota’s rural communities and offers a peaceful way of life with connections to the past.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: 100 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57312
- Latitude: 44.0797° N
- Longitude: 98.3534° W
Carthage, South Dakota
Location and History
Carthage is a small town located in the eastern part of Jerauld County, South Dakota. Founded in the late 19th century, Carthage was named after the ancient city of Carthage in North Africa, symbolizing strength and resilience. The town was initially settled by European immigrants, primarily Germans and Scandinavians, who established farms and ranches in the area. Agriculture has remained the backbone of the town’s economy, with grain farming and livestock raising being the primary industries. Carthage was incorporated in 1902 and flourished as a farming community throughout the early 20th century. The town served as a hub for local agriculture, with grain elevators, milling operations, and trade routes connecting Carthage to larger markets. Over time, the population of Carthage declined due to rural depopulation trends, and it now has a small but dedicated population. The town continues to maintain a rural atmosphere, with many of its original buildings still in use and the surrounding farmlands remaining an integral part of its identity. Despite its small size, Carthage has maintained its strong community ties and continues to celebrate its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carthage is served by the Wessington Springs School District, and students typically attend school in Wessington Springs, with a few attending the district’s high school. The town does not have its own high school, but it offers a sense of community with local gatherings and events. The town’s landmarks include the historic Carthage United Methodist Church, a central point for social gatherings and community events. The surrounding farmland, with its wide-open spaces, provides opportunities for agricultural tourism and exploration, offering scenic views of South Dakota’s vast prairies. Carthage’s history is also marked by several old homes and buildings that reflect the town’s early 20th-century agricultural roots. While the town does not have a major tourist attraction like other cities in South Dakota, its peaceful atmosphere and deep-rooted agricultural history make it an appealing location for those seeking a quiet rural life. Carthage continues to thrive as a small, tight-knit community that values its history, local traditions, and farming heritage.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 200 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57323
- Latitude: 44.0210° N
- Longitude: 98.2499° W
