Aberdeen, South Dakota Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Brown County, South Dakota has a rich history that can be traced back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Dakota Sioux. European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, with the establishment of the Fort Sisseton military post in 1864. This marked the beginning of the influx of American settlers into the region.

In 1879, Brown County was officially established and named after Alfred Brown, a prominent territorial legislator. The county seat was initially located in Columbia, but in 1880, it was moved to Aberdeen, which eventually became the largest city in the county. The railroad reached Aberdeen in the late 1880s, further contributing to the growth and development of the area.

The early years of Brown County were marked by agricultural expansion, as farmers settled in the region and began cultivating the fertile land. Wheat, corn, and livestock farming became the backbone of the local economy. The establishment of the first creamery in Aberdeen in 1885 also marked a significant development in the agricultural sector.

Over the years, Brown County continued to grow and diversify its economy. In the early 1900s, the county became a hub for manufacturing and industry, with companies like Aberdeen American News and Hub City Iron Works contributing to its economic prosperity. Today, Brown County remains a vibrant community with a strong agricultural sector, a thriving manufacturing industry, and a rich cultural heritage, attracting visitors from near and far.