Cities and Towns in McPherson County, South Dakota
Founded in 1873, McPherson County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, McPherson County was formed from Buffalo County. The city of Leola is the county seat. With FIPS code of 89, McPherson County has a population of 2,420 and area of 1,137 square miles (2,945 km²).
List of all cities in McPherson County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Artas, SD | 57437 | 605 |
| Eureka, SD | 57437 | 605 |
| Greenway, SD | 57437 | 605 |
| Hills, SD | 57437 | 605 |
| Hillsview, SD | 57437 | 605 |
| Leola, SD | 57456 | 605 |
| Longlake, SD | 57457 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in McPherson County, South Dakota
Leola, South Dakota
Location and History
Leola is a small town located in the southeastern part of McPherson County, South Dakota. Situated along U.S. Highway 12, it is about 25 miles west of Aberdeen, a larger regional center. Leola was established in the late 19th century and was incorporated in 1905. The town was named after the daughter of a local landowner, and it quickly became a center for local farming and agriculture, particularly wheat and cattle. Leola grew as a railroad town, with the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad serving as a key factor in the town’s early development. Over time, the town evolved into a rural service center for farmers and ranchers in the surrounding area. Like many small towns in the Great Plains, Leola has faced challenges related to rural depopulation and the decline of rail transportation, but it remains a quiet and close-knit community. The town’s economy today is still based largely on agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary industries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Leola is served by the Leola School District, which includes Leola High School and a middle and elementary school. The district offers a strong academic program with an emphasis on community engagement and extracurricular activities. Leola’s landmarks include the McPherson County Courthouse, located in the heart of the town, which serves as both a government building and a symbol of the town’s role in county administration. Additionally, the nearby lakes and parks, including Leola City Park, offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Leola is also known for its proximity to hunting grounds and outdoor activities, with residents and tourists frequently visiting the area for pheasant hunting in the fall. The town maintains a small-town charm with its local businesses, including cafes, shops, and a post office. The annual Leola Picnic is another highlight of the year, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage and providing a chance for locals to come together for food, fun, and fellowship.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: 600 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57456
- Latitude: 45.7246° N
- Longitude: 98.6573° W
Eureka, South Dakota
Location and History
Eureka is a city located in the northern part of McPherson County, South Dakota. Positioned along South Dakota Highway 10, it is approximately 10 miles from the North Dakota border. Eureka was established in 1880 as a railroad town and quickly grew due to its strategic location along the Northern Pacific Railway. The town was originally a supply center for surrounding settlers and farmers, with its economy relying heavily on agriculture and the transportation of goods. Eureka was incorporated in 1883, and by the early 20th century, it had become a hub for grain elevators and a key player in the region’s agricultural trade. The town’s growth was also bolstered by the arrival of homesteaders in the late 19th century, who brought with them new ideas and energy. Over the years, Eureka has maintained a steady population and continues to serve as a service and trade center for local farmers and ranchers. Today, Eureka is known for its friendly community, its heritage of agriculture, and its commitment to preserving the history of the town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eureka is served by the Eureka School District, which includes Eureka High School, offering a comprehensive academic program alongside athletic teams and extracurricular activities. The town also has a public library, providing resources for education and entertainment. Eureka’s landmarks include the McPherson County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual county fair, a highlight of the summer. The historic Eureka Opera House is another key landmark, offering cultural events, concerts, and performances that connect the community to its artistic heritage. The town is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with nearby lakes and parks offering fishing, boating, and hunting opportunities. Eureka is also located near several national wildlife refuges, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The town celebrates its agricultural roots each year with local events such as the Eureka Harvest Festival, which brings together residents for a celebration of the town’s farming heritage.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 1,200 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57437
- Latitude: 45.9512° N
- Longitude: 98.5070° W
Ashley, South Dakota
Location and History
Ashley is a small town located in the southern part of McPherson County, South Dakota, and it serves as one of the region’s farming communities. Founded in 1886, Ashley was established on land that was once part of the Great Sioux Reservation. The town’s early economy was built around agriculture, and it became an important center for farmers and ranchers in the area. The town’s history is closely tied to the development of the railroad system, as the town grew rapidly after the arrival of the railroad. Like many small towns in rural South Dakota, Ashley has faced challenges related to population decline and shifts in the economy. The town remains an agricultural center, with a particular focus on grain production and cattle farming. Though its population has remained small, Ashley continues to serve as a central meeting point for surrounding rural communities, providing services such as education, healthcare, and retail to the local population.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ashley is part of the Ashley School District, which includes a small but dedicated K-12 public school. The school offers a variety of academic courses, as well as sports programs that bring the community together. Ashley’s landmarks include the Ashley Community Hall, which serves as a venue for local events, gatherings, and celebrations. The town also boasts several local parks and recreational areas, including the Ashley City Park, which is popular for picnics, family gatherings, and outdoor activities. The town’s proximity to larger regional centers like Aberdeen provides residents with additional cultural and recreational opportunities. Ashley hosts several community events each year, including the Ashley Fall Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural roots and provides an opportunity for socializing and entertainment for residents of all ages. The town is surrounded by vast farmland, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy a rural lifestyle.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: 500 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57427
- Latitude: 45.6074° N
- Longitude: 98.5741° W
