Historical Markers in
Jackson County, South Dakota

A 75-Million-Year Walk Anatomy of a Badland Badlands Oasis Bands of Time Closer than You Imagined Dying to Become a Fossil Fight for Survival It's a Dog's Life Laura Ingalls Wilder - De Smet Mako sica Off to the Races Purple Heart Memorial Highway Reading the Rocks See Ya Later, Alligator The Badlands Wall The Big Badlands Titanic Discovery Tom Berry  1879-1951 Under the Sea What a Find!
The Black Hills of South Dakota are considered sacred by many Native American tribes, and were the subject of a long-standing land dispute between the U.S. government and the Sioux Nation.
South Dakota random facts
Jackson County, located in the state of South Dakota, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lakota Sioux, who roamed the plains and utilized the land for hunting and gathering. European exploration of the region began in the 18th century when French and Spanish explorers made their way through the area.

In the early 19th century, American fur traders established posts along the Missouri River, which runs through Jackson County. The region became a vital hub of the fur trade, attracting traders from various backgrounds. However, tensions between the Native Americans and settlers persisted, leading to conflicts such as the Battle of White Stone Hill in 1863.

The year 1883 marked a significant milestone for Jackson County, as it was officially established and named after President Andrew Jackson. With the arrival of the railroad, the community began to flourish, attracting farmers and businessmen who sought to take advantage of the area's fertile soil and natural resources.

Throughout the 20th century, Jackson County experienced both challenges and growth. The Great Depression of the 1930s hit the agricultural community hard, causing financial hardships for many. However, the county recovered in the following decades, particularly after the construction of the Big Bend Dam in the late 1950s. The dam provided irrigation for local farmers, stimulating agricultural productivity.

Today, Jackson County continues to be primarily an agricultural region, with farming and ranching being the main industries. The county's rich history can be explored through various historical sites and museums, offering visitors glimpses into the past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Jackson County, South Dakota.

  • 1857 - Jackson County is organized as a county in Dakota Territory.
  • 1883 - The town of Jackson is established as the county seat.
  • 1890 - The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad reaches Jackson, spurring economic growth.
  • 1910 - The population of Jackson County reaches its peak at around 10,000 residents.
  • 1930 - The Great Depression takes a toll on the county's economy, leading to a decline in population.
  • 1940 - The Homestake Uranium Mine is discovered, providing a temporary economic boost.
  • 1958 - The Homestake Uranium Mine closes, leading to another decline in the county's economy.
  • 1978 - A flood devastates the town of Jackson, causing significant damage and loss of property.
  • 1994 - The Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, which is partially located in Jackson County, hosts the Lakota Nation Invitational Basketball Tournament.
  • 2002 - The population of Jackson County is estimated to be around 3,000 residents.
  • 2019 - Jackson County celebrates its sesquicentennial, marking 150 years since its establishment.