History of Bennett County, South Dakota
Bennett County, South Dakota, is a region located in the southwestern part of the state, rich in Native American heritage, pioneer history, and scenic beauty. The county was established in 1909, named after Robert Bennett, a prominent South Dakota rancher and political figure. The area has a deep connection to the Lakota Sioux Nation, and the county’s history is marked by early Native American conflicts, the development of ranching and farming, and the establishment of key transportation routes. Over the years, Bennett County has evolved into an agricultural and tourism-based economy, with landmarks that honor its storied past.
Origins of Bennett County
Formation and Naming of Bennett County
Bennett County was created in 1909 by the South Dakota Legislature from parts of Mellette County. The county was named in honor of Robert Bennett, a rancher and politician who was instrumental in the development of the region. The county’s establishment coincided with the development of transportation systems and the rise of the railroad industry in the early 20th century, which connected the area to larger markets.
Before its formation, the area was primarily inhabited by the Lakota Sioux, who had lived in the region for centuries. Their presence is deeply woven into the fabric of the county’s history. The land in Bennett County was originally part of the Great Sioux Reservation, created in 1851 by the U.S. government, but was later divided following the Treaty of Fort Laramie in 1868. This treaty, which sought to establish peace between the U.S. government and the Native American tribes, allocated land to the Sioux Nation but also resulted in the removal of many tribes from their ancestral homes.
During the late 19th century, the United States government began to encourage settlers, largely of European descent, to move westward and cultivate the land. Bennett County became part of the broader expansion and settlement of South Dakota, although tensions between the Native American populations and settlers remained a significant theme throughout the county’s early years.
Early Agricultural Development and Economy
The early settlers of Bennett County faced the challenges of a dry and rugged landscape, but with the expansion of the railroad, agriculture, especially cattle ranching, became the cornerstone of the local economy. Homesteaders from the East arrived in the area hoping to stake their claims on the land, leading to the establishment of many small farms and ranches.
Ranching became particularly important in the area, with cattle and sheep grazing on the vast prairies. The rugged terrain was ideal for cattle grazing, and over time, Bennett County earned a reputation as a prominent cattle-ranching region in South Dakota. While crops such as wheat, corn, and oats were grown, it was the livestock industry that became the economic driver. The region’s agricultural economy persisted into the 20th century, with a continued focus on cattle ranching.
Native American Influence and the Lakota Sioux
The history of Bennett County is deeply intertwined with the presence of the Lakota Sioux Nation. Long before the arrival of settlers, the Lakota Sioux had called this land home. The area’s history is marked by the various conflicts and treaties between the Lakota people and the U.S. government.
One of the most significant events in the history of Bennett County was the Wounded Knee Massacre of 1890, which occurred just to the northeast of the county. This tragic event marked the end of the major Native American resistance to U.S. expansion in the Great Plains and resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Lakota Sioux men, women, and children. The massacre and its aftermath left a deep scar in the local Native American community.
Today, the Lakota Sioux continue to have a significant presence in Bennett County. The Pine Ridge Reservation, which lies partly within the county, is home to one of the largest Native American populations in South Dakota. The cultural legacy of the Lakota people is preserved through art, ceremonies, and storytelling, and many of the county’s historical sites celebrate the contributions of Native American communities.
Key Historical Events
The Role of the Railroad
The arrival of the railroad was a transformative event for Bennett County and the surrounding areas. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the railroad opened up access to markets, allowing farmers and ranchers to sell their goods far beyond the local area. The construction of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, which passed through nearby towns, helped accelerate the settlement of the region.
The railroad also played a pivotal role in the transportation of livestock, which helped cement ranching as the primary economic activity in the area. As a result of improved transportation, Bennett County became a key player in the cattle industry, with shipments of livestock heading east to larger urban markets.
The Dust Bowl of the 1930s
Like many parts of the American Midwest, Bennett County was hit hard by the Dust Bowl during the 1930s. Drought, combined with poor farming practices, led to soil erosion and the widespread loss of crops. The impact of the Dust Bowl was felt most acutely in the southern Great Plains, where large-scale farming was particularly vulnerable.
In Bennett County, the Dust Bowl caused a severe economic downturn, as many farmers struggled to maintain their livelihoods. Many families were forced to leave the region in search of better opportunities. The effects of the Dust Bowl are still remembered in the area, with the scars of the period etched into the collective memory of the community.
The Rise of Tourism and Modern Development
While Bennett County has always been an agricultural region, the latter half of the 20th century saw an increase in tourism. The county’s proximity to natural wonders such as the Badlands and the Black Hills, as well as its rich Native American heritage, made it an attractive destination for tourists. In particular, the development of the National Park Service sites in the region helped draw visitors to Bennett County.
The economic diversification that occurred in the latter half of the 20th century was spurred by the expansion of tourism, which brought in additional revenue and job opportunities. Today, tourism, alongside ranching, continues to play a central role in the local economy.
Historical Sites in Bennett County
1. Wounded Knee Massacre Site
Overview:
The Wounded Knee Massacre Site is one of the most significant historical locations in Bennett County. Located near the town of Wounded Knee, this site commemorates the tragic massacre of 1890, in which hundreds of Lakota Sioux men, women, and children were killed by U.S. military forces. The massacre marked the end of the Indian resistance to U.S. expansion in the Great Plains and is remembered as one of the most sorrowful chapters in American history.
The site includes a memorial that honors the victims of the massacre and tells the story of the event. The Wounded Knee Massacre is a deeply emotional and powerful part of the county’s history, and the site remains an important place for reflection and remembrance.
Location:
The Wounded Knee Massacre Site is located near the town of Wounded Knee, off U.S. Highway 18, in Bennett County.
Ticket Price:
Free to visit; donations to the memorial are encouraged.
Parking Information:
Parking is available on-site, though the area can become crowded during peak tourist seasons.
2. Pine Ridge Indian Reservation
Overview:
The Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, located partly within Bennett County, is home to the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe. The reservation is one of the largest in the United States and holds significant cultural and historical value. Visitors to the reservation can learn about the history and traditions of the Lakota people through museums, cultural centers, and guided tours. The reservation is also home to the Oglala Lakota College, which plays a central role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Lakota Sioux.
Location:
The Pine Ridge Reservation is located in southwestern South Dakota, with parts extending into Bennett County.
Ticket Price:
Visiting the reservation is free, though some cultural and historical sites may have an entrance fee.
Parking Information:
There are several designated parking areas at cultural sites and visitor centers within the reservation.
3. Badlands National Park (North Entrance)
Overview:
Although primarily located in neighboring Pennington County, the northern entrance to Badlands National Park lies within Bennett County. The Badlands is a striking natural wonder known for its dramatically eroded landscape, rich fossil deposits, and diverse wildlife. The park draws thousands of tourists each year and offers hiking, photography, and camping opportunities. The area is also significant to Native American history and is considered sacred land by the Lakota Sioux.
Location:
The North Entrance to Badlands National Park is located near Wall, South Dakota, along U.S. Highway 240.
Ticket Price:
- Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for seven days)
- Annual Pass: $55
Parking Information:
Ample parking is available at the visitor center and various overlooks throughout the park.
Geography and Climate of Bennett County
Geography:
Bennett County is located in the southwestern corner of South Dakota, bordering Nebraska to the west and Wyoming to the north. The county is part of the Great Plains and features a diverse landscape of rolling hills, prairies, and rugged terrain. The Badlands, one of South Dakota’s most famous natural landmarks, lies to the north of the county, while the Pine Ridge Reservation occupies a large portion of the land. The county has a total area of approximately 1,200 square miles, much of which is used for agriculture, livestock grazing, and conservation.
Climate:
Bennett County experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with occasional snowstorms. The county receives limited rainfall, with most precipitation occurring during the summer months. The climate is well-suited for ranching, but the area is also vulnerable to droughts and extreme weather events, such as the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.
County Facts
- Year Founded: 1909
- County Seat: Martin
- Population: 3,600 (approx.)
- Population Density: 3.0 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Martin, Oglala, Manderson
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 18, U.S. Highway 73, South Dakota Highway 44
- Adjacent Counties: Mellette County, Shannon County, Jackson County, Haakon County, and Nebraska
Bennett County is a place where history, culture, and nature intersect, offering both residents and visitors a deep connection to the past while looking toward the future. Whether it’s honoring the memory of the Lakota Sioux through the Wounded Knee Massacre Site or experiencing the beauty of the Badlands, Bennett County’s rich heritage continues to shape its identity and its role in the broader landscape of South Dakota.
