History of Aurora County, South Dakota
Aurora County, located in the heart of South Dakota, has a history shaped by Native American tribes, European settlement, and agricultural development. Established in 1873, the county is named after the nearby Aurora, which means “dawn” in Latin. The county’s early history includes the displacement of Native American tribes, such as the Yankton Sioux, followed by European settlers arriving in the mid-1800s. Throughout its history, Aurora County has been marked by agricultural development, particularly wheat and cattle farming, which remain crucial to its economy. Today, the county offers a glimpse into South Dakota’s rural heritage and agricultural roots.
Origins and Early History
Before European settlers arrived in the region, the area that would become Aurora County was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Yankton Sioux. These tribes utilized the fertile land and numerous rivers in the area for hunting, fishing, and farming. The Missouri River, which flows near the eastern border of the county, was a significant resource for the Native American tribes that lived along it.
With the arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s, tensions arose between the incoming settlers and the Native American tribes. The United States government, through treaties and military actions, gradually displaced the indigenous populations from their ancestral lands. This process was part of the broader westward expansion that reshaped the landscape of South Dakota.
Aurora County’s location in the southeastern part of the state made it an attractive destination for settlers looking to farm the rich, fertile soil of the Great Plains. In the 1860s and 1870s, after the Dakota Territory was formally established by the U.S. government, settlers began to move into what would become Aurora County. The county was officially created in 1873, during a period of rapid expansion and settlement in the American Midwest.
The county’s establishment followed the construction of the Milwaukee Road Railroad, which made it easier for settlers to reach the area and for goods to be transported to major cities like Sioux Falls and beyond. The introduction of the railroad and other transportation networks opened up vast tracts of land to farming, and agriculture soon became the backbone of the county’s economy.
Growth and Development
The years following its creation were marked by rapid growth in population and infrastructure. Settlers from Europe, particularly from Scandinavia and Germany, arrived in Aurora County seeking land and opportunities. By the turn of the 20th century, the county had established itself as a significant agricultural hub, producing wheat, corn, and livestock.
The town of Plankinton, named after railroad magnate William Plankinton, became the county seat. It served as a focal point for county government, commerce, and culture. By the early 1900s, the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses further cemented Plankinton’s role as the economic and social center of the county.
The county’s population continued to grow throughout the early 20th century, as farming technology advanced, and new farming techniques led to increased productivity. However, with the advent of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl in the 1930s, Aurora County, like many rural areas in South Dakota, experienced significant economic challenges. Many farmers lost their land due to drought, economic hardship, and falling crop prices. During this time, the federal government introduced programs to aid farmers, including the Agricultural Adjustment Act and the Civilian Conservation Corps, which aimed to restore soil conservation and improve infrastructure.
Despite these setbacks, the county gradually recovered, and by the 1950s, it saw a renewed period of growth. Mechanization in farming and new technologies allowed the agricultural economy to thrive once again. Today, the county remains primarily agricultural, with a mix of crop farming, livestock raising, and some light industry.
Key Historical Events
Several events have shaped the development of Aurora County over the years, from the establishment of the county and early settlements to the impact of national crises like the Great Depression. Below are some key historical events in the county’s history:
- 1873 – Aurora County was officially established by the Dakota Territory Legislature. The creation of the county coincided with the influx of settlers into the area, drawn by the fertile farmland and the construction of the railroad.
- Railroad Expansion – The construction of the Milwaukee Road Railroad through the county in the late 1800s played a significant role in its development. The railroad connected the county to regional markets and facilitated the transportation of agricultural products.
- The Great Depression (1930s) – The Dust Bowl and the economic downturn severely impacted Aurora County’s agricultural industry. Many farmers lost their land, and the federal government introduced relief programs to help struggling communities.
- Post-World War II Agricultural Boom – Following World War II, advances in farming technology and mechanization led to increased agricultural production, helping the county recover and grow its economy once again.
Historical Sites in Aurora County
While much of Aurora County’s history can be explored through its agriculture and small towns, there are a number of historical sites that offer a deeper look into the county’s rich heritage.
1. Aurora County Courthouse
Overview: Located in the county seat of Plankinton, the Aurora County Courthouse serves as both a historical landmark and the center of government for the county. The building has witnessed significant events, from the founding of the county to the present day, and is a key architectural feature in the town.
Location: 104 N Main St, Plankinton, SD 57368
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Free public parking is available in the parking lot adjacent to the courthouse.
2. Plankinton Depot
Overview: The Plankinton Depot is a former railroad station that played a central role in the town’s development. Built in the late 1800s, it served as a hub for travelers and goods being shipped via the Milwaukee Road Railroad. Today, the depot is a reminder of the town’s early connection to the railroad and the broader economic boom it facilitated.
Location: 113 S Main St, Plankinton, SD 57368
Ticket Price: Free (The depot may be closed to the public; check with local authorities for access)
Parking Information: Parking is available along Main Street and near the depot.
3. Aurora County Museum
Overview: The Aurora County Museum in Plankinton offers a comprehensive look at the county’s history, from its Native American origins to the present day. The museum includes exhibits on early settlers, agriculture, and the impact of the railroad, as well as a variety of historical artifacts related to the county’s development.
Location: 123 W 1st Ave, Plankinton, SD 57368
Ticket Price: Free (donations welcome)
Parking Information: Free parking is available near the museum.
4. Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge
Overview: While not strictly a historical site, the Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge offers a glimpse into the region’s natural history. The area has been used by Native American tribes for fishing and hunting, and it continues to be an important habitat for migratory birds. The refuge provides opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and environmental education.
Location: 30518 321st Ave, Lake Andes, SD 57356
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Parking is available at the visitor center and designated areas within the refuge.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Aurora County is located in southeastern South Dakota, with rolling hills, expansive farmland, and proximity to the Missouri River. The county’s natural environment has been integral to its agricultural success, providing fertile soil for crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans. The climate is classified as continental, with hot summers and cold winters.
Summers are generally warm and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 80s and 90s (°F), while winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures in the 20s and 30s (°F). The region can experience extreme weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and blizzards. Annual precipitation is moderate, with rain being more frequent during the warmer months.
Key County Facts
- Year Founded: 1873
- County Seat: Plankinton
- Population: Approximately 2,800 (2020 census)
- Population Density: 8 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Plankinton, White Lake
- Major Highways: U.S. Route 281, South Dakota Highway 44
- Adjacent Counties: Jerauld County, Sanborn County, Davison County, Hanson County, Brule County