Cities and Towns in Miner County, South Dakota
Founded in 1873, Miner County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Miner County was formed from Hanson County. The city of Howard is the county seat. With FIPS code of 97, Miner County has a population of 2,314 and area of 570 square miles (1,476 km²).
List of all cities in Miner County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Argonne, SD | 57349 | 605 |
| Canova, SD | 57321 | 605 |
| Carthage, SD | 57323 | 605 |
| Epiphany, SD | 57321 | 605 |
| Fedora, SD | 57337 | 605 |
| Howard, SD | 57349 | 605 |
| Roswell, SD | 57349 | 605 |
| Vilas, SD | 57349 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Miner County, South Dakota
Howard, South Dakota
Location and History
Howard, the county seat of Miner County, is situated in the central part of South Dakota, approximately 40 miles west of Sioux Falls. It was founded in 1880 and originally developed as a railroad town, benefiting from the arrival of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. The town was named after General Oliver O. Howard, a Civil War hero and commissioner of the Freedmen’s Bureau. Over the years, Howard has maintained a small-town character, with agriculture serving as the backbone of its economy. The town’s history is intertwined with farming, and its development was shaped by the settlers who arrived in the late 19th century to farm the rich prairies of the region. Howard’s proximity to the Big Sioux River also influenced its early growth, with the river playing a role in transportation and trade. While the town has evolved with modern amenities, its roots in agriculture and small-town life remain strong. Over time, Howard has developed into a hub for surrounding farming communities, offering services, education, and commerce.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Howard is served by the Howard School District, which includes Howard High School, Howard Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success. The town is also home to the Howard Public Library, a vital resource for both education and recreation. Major landmarks in Howard include the Miner County Courthouse, which is a historic building that stands as a symbol of the town’s government and civic life. The Howard City Park, located near the center of town, provides outdoor recreation opportunities, including sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Another notable landmark is the Howard Depot, a preserved historic train station that reflects the town’s early days as a railroad hub. The town is also home to several churches and historical homes that add to its charm. Its annual events, such as the Miner County Fair, are important to the local culture and attract visitors from across the region.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 950 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57349
- Latitude: 44.0760° N
- Longitude: 97.2990° W
Carthage, South Dakota
Location and History
Carthage is located in the southeastern part of Miner County, South Dakota, and lies about 20 miles southwest of Howard. Founded in the late 19th century, Carthage was established as a farming community that grew due to the fertile soil in the area. The town’s early settlers were primarily of Scandinavian and German descent, and they brought with them a strong tradition of agriculture. Carthage, like many small towns in South Dakota, was initially dependent on the railroad for transporting crops and goods. It grew steadily through the early 1900s, but as rail transportation declined, so did the town’s growth. However, Carthage remains a close-knit, rural community. Over the years, the population of the town has been relatively stable, with a few modern additions. Agriculture remains an important part of Carthage’s identity, with the surrounding area supporting a strong farming economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carthage is served by the Carthage School District, which includes the Carthage High School and several elementary schools. The school district has a reputation for providing a solid education and fostering strong community involvement. The town’s residents are actively engaged in school events and activities, which play an important role in the town’s social life. Carthage is also home to a public library that offers educational resources, along with recreational opportunities for the community. The town’s landmarks include the historic Carthage Lutheran Church, which reflects the Scandinavian roots of many early settlers. The church, along with other small buildings in the town, represents the deep religious and cultural traditions of the area. The Carthage City Park, with its sports fields and playgrounds, provides a space for outdoor activities and community events. The town is also known for its small-town charm, with a number of historic buildings and family-run businesses that contribute to its tight-knit community atmosphere.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 500 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57323
- Latitude: 43.5686° N
- Longitude: 97.2492° W
Alexandria, South Dakota
Location and History
Alexandria is located in the southern part of Miner County, about 16 miles southeast of Howard. It was founded in 1879 and named after Alexandria, Virginia. Like many towns in South Dakota, Alexandria’s early growth was linked to agriculture and the railroad. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town became an important hub for farming and trade in the region. Alexandria was known for its agricultural produce, especially wheat, corn, and livestock, which were transported via the railroads that ran through the town. Over time, Alexandria’s population remained relatively small, but the town has managed to retain its rural charm. The local economy is still heavily reliant on farming, but the town has become increasingly attractive to people seeking a quieter lifestyle, especially as the Sioux Falls metropolitan area has grown. Alexandria remains a peaceful community, offering a slower pace of life while still maintaining access to the larger city’s amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Alexandria School District serves the town, with Alexandria High School being the primary educational institution. The district offers a solid academic program, as well as extracurricular activities in sports and the arts. Alexandria’s small-town atmosphere means that the local school plays an important role in the community. The town is also home to the Alexandria Public Library, which provides access to books and educational resources. Landmarks in Alexandria include the historic Alexandria Lutheran Church, a testament to the town’s Scandinavian heritage, and the Miner County Fairgrounds, which hosts community events, including the annual county fair. Alexandria is also known for its recreational spaces, including the Alexandria City Park, which features sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. The town is located near the Lake Alexandria, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. These features make Alexandria a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: 700 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57311
- Latitude: 43.6631° N
- Longitude: 97.1197° W
