National Register Listing

Milltown Hutterite Colony

a.k.a. Dilger Farm

On James River, Milltown, SD
Local significance of the building:
Community Planning And Development; Exploration/settlement; Architecture; Religion; Philosophy

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The town of Deadwood, South Dakota was a notorious Wild West town, known for its lawlessness and frequent shootouts. Wild Bill Hickok was famously shot and killed in Deadwood's Saloon No. 10.
South Dakota random facts
Hutchinson County, located in the southeastern part of South Dakota, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Dakota Sioux, who relied on the land for hunting and gathering.

In the 1860s, European settlers started to arrive in the region, attracted by the fertile soil and potential for agriculture. The county was officially established in 1871 and named after John Hutchinson, a prominent territorial legislator. Early settlers faced many challenges, including harsh weather conditions and conflicts with Native American tribes, but they persevered and began to build thriving communities.

The development of Hutchinson County was closely tied to the railroad expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The arrival of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad in the 1880s facilitated the transportation of goods, enabling farmers to export their crops and fueling the growth of towns like Olivet and Parkston. The railroad also brought new settlers and businesses to the area, further contributing to its development.

Over the years, Hutchinson County has experienced both periods of prosperity and challenges. The agricultural sector has been the backbone of the county's economy, with crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat being major contributors. However, the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl in the 1930s took a toll on the region, causing economic hardships for many residents. In recent decades, efforts have been made to diversify the economy, with the addition of manufacturing and service industries.

Today, Hutchinson County continues to be a vibrant and close-knit community, with a mix of rural and urban areas. Its rich history, strong agricultural heritage, and resilient spirit have shaped it into the county it is today, providing a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of pioneer life in South Dakota.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hutchinson County, South Dakota.

  • 1860: The area now known as Hutchinson County is home to Native American tribes, including the Yankton Sioux.
  • 1868: The Treaty of Fort Laramie is signed, reducing the traditional territory of the Yankton Sioux.
  • 1872: The first white settlers arrive in the area.
  • 1877: Hutchinson County is officially established by the Dakota Territorial Legislature, named after John Hutchinson, a prominent judge.
  • 1880: The first courthouse is built in Olivet, which becomes the county seat.
  • 1890: The population of Hutchinson County reaches over 8,000.
  • 1916: A devastating tornado strikes the towns of Menno and Olivet, causing significant damage.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression leads to economic decline in Hutchinson County.
  • 1946: A polio outbreak affects many residents of Hutchinson County.
  • 1980s: Agriculture becomes the primary industry in the county, with corn and soybean production leading the way.
  • 2009: Hutchinson County celebrates its 132nd anniversary.