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Cities and Towns in Lawrence County, South Dakota

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Founded in 1875, Lawrence County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Lawrence County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Deadwood is the county seat. With FIPS code of 81, Lawrence County has a population of 26,165 and area of 800 square miles (2,072 km²).

List of all cities in Lawrence County, SD alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Black Hills State University, SD 57799 605
Central City, SD 57754 605
Deadwood, SD 57732 605
Englewood, SD 57754 605
Lead, SD 57754 605
Nemo, SD 57759 605
Pluma, SD 57732 605
Roubaix, SD 57732 605
Saint Onge, SD 57779 605
Savoy, SD 57754 605
Spearfish, SD 57783 605
Spearfish, SD 57799 605
Spearfish Canyon, SD 57754 605
Terraville, SD 57754 605
Terry Peak, SD 57754 605
Tilton, SD 57754 605
Trojan, SD 57754 605
Whitewood, SD 57793 605

Major Cities and Towns in Lawrence County, South Dakota

Deadwood, South Dakota

Location and History

Deadwood, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a historic town with a rich legacy tied to the gold rush of the late 1800s. Founded in 1876, Deadwood became one of the most famous boomtowns of the American West, attracting miners, gamblers, and adventurers after gold was discovered in the area. The town is named after the dead trees that lined the creek, and it grew rapidly as miners flocked to the region seeking fortune. Over time, Deadwood gained notoriety for its lawlessness, with colorful figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane becoming part of its lore. The town’s history includes frequent conflicts with Native American tribes and various conflicts between law enforcement and outlaws. By the early 20th century, Deadwood’s mining industry had declined, but the town retained its historic charm and became a center for tourism. It was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1961, helping preserve its many buildings and historical sites. Today, Deadwood is known for its blend of Wild West history, casino resorts, and outdoor activities, with many visitors flocking to the town for both its cultural significance and its entertainment options.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Deadwood is served by the Deadwood School District, which includes Deadwood Middle and High School. The district is committed to providing a strong educational experience, with a focus on community involvement and academic excellence. The town is also home to a few private schools, offering a range of educational options. Notable landmarks in Deadwood include the Adams Museum, which houses exhibits related to the town’s history, including artifacts from the gold rush and the Wild West era. The Deadwood Historic District is a key area of interest, featuring preserved 19th-century architecture and sites associated with famous historical figures. Other important landmarks include the Mount Moriah Cemetery, where Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane are buried, and the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center, which showcases the history of the Homestake Mine and the scientific work conducted at the site. Deadwood’s Main Street is lined with Victorian-era buildings, many of which now house shops, restaurants, and casinos, providing a lively atmosphere for both history buffs and tourists looking for entertainment.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 2.3 square miles
  • Population: 1,300 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 57732
  • Latitude: 44.3759° N
  • Longitude: 103.7301° W

Lead, South Dakota

Location and History

Lead is a neighboring town to Deadwood, situated in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was established in the late 19th century as a mining town, specifically following the discovery of gold in the area. Lead’s history is intrinsically linked to the Homestake Mine, which was founded in 1876 and became one of the largest and most productive gold mines in North America. Lead grew rapidly as miners and their families settled in the area, and by the early 20th century, the town was one of the largest in the Black Hills. The closure of the Homestake Mine in 2002 marked a shift in the town’s economy, though the legacy of gold mining remains a significant part of Lead’s identity. Today, Lead is a smaller town but still boasts a strong connection to its mining heritage, as well as a focus on tourism and outdoor recreation. The town remains an important part of the Black Hills region, attracting visitors interested in its mining history, beautiful natural surroundings, and proximity to nearby Deadwood and the famous Black Hills National Forest.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lead is served by the Lead-Deadwood School District, which operates several schools in the area, including Lead-Deadwood High School. The district is known for its commitment to small class sizes, individualized attention, and offering programs that emphasize academic achievement and extracurricular activities. Lead also has private schools and daycare options for younger children. Among Lead’s notable landmarks is the Homestake Mine, which is now home to the Sanford Underground Research Facility, one of the world’s leading scientific research centers. Visitors to Lead can tour the mine and learn about its history and the research being conducted at the facility. Other points of interest include the Black Hills Mining Museum, which showcases Lead’s mining history, and the nearby Black Hills National Forest, which offers outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, and fishing. The Lead-Deadwood Historic District is another important area, with a number of buildings dating back to the town’s early mining days. Lead’s proximity to Deadwood also provides visitors with access to the many historical and cultural sites in that neighboring town.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 1.6 square miles
  • Population: 3,100 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 57754
  • Latitude: 44.3473° N
  • Longitude: 103.7667° W

Spearfish, South Dakota

Location and History

Spearfish, located in the northern part of the Black Hills, is one of the larger towns in Lawrence County. The city was founded in the late 1800s, primarily as a result of the railroad’s arrival in the area. Spearfish’s name is derived from the nearby Spearfish Creek, named for the indigenous people who used spears to catch fish in the creek. The city grew quickly during the gold rush days, and its history is closely tied to the mining and railroad industries. However, Spearfish evolved over the years into a more diversified community, focusing on tourism, agriculture, and education. Today, the city is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and as a regional center for commerce and services. The presence of the University of South Dakota in Spearfish, as well as nearby recreational areas like Spearfish Canyon, has made the city a popular destination for visitors, students, and retirees. Its picturesque setting, combined with its access to hiking, fishing, and historical sites, has contributed to its reputation as a great place to live and visit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Spearfish is home to the Spearfish School District, which includes Spearfish High School, known for its academic excellence and athletic achievements. The school district offers a wide variety of programs, including AP courses, vocational training, and extracurricular activities. The city also boasts Black Hills State University, a public university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Key landmarks in Spearfish include the Spearfish Canyon, a popular location for hiking, scenic drives, and photography. The canyon is known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery is another popular landmark, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history of fish stocking in the region. The Spearfish Historic District is filled with buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, giving the town a charming, historical feel. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the nearby Lookout Mountain, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Black Hills.

Key Statistics

  • Area: 4.1 square miles
  • Population: 11,000 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 57783
  • Latitude: 44.4907° N
  • Longitude: 103.8597° W

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