Tripp County, South Dakota

Tripp County, South Dakota, is located in the central region of the state. It was officially established in 1873 and named after the prominent politician and lawyer Bartlett Tripp. The area had long been inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lakota Sioux, but colonization began with the arrival of European settlers.

During the late 19th century, Tripp County experienced a surge in population as homesteaders were attracted to the fertile land and opportunities for farming and ranching. The arrival of the railroad in the area further facilitated settlement and economic growth. Small towns like Winner, which eventually became the county seat, began to emerge as commercial hubs.

Tripp County played a significant role in the development of livestock farming, particularly cattle ranching. The introduction of barbed wire fences in the late 1800s allowed for the expansion of ranches and the establishment of cattle trails. The county became known for its high-quality beef production and hosted various cattle drives during this time.

In the early 20th century, Tripp County faced challenges such as droughts and economic downturns, impacting its agricultural sector. However, efforts to modernize and diversify the local economy were successful, enabling the county to recover. Today, Tripp County remains a rural area with a primarily agricultural economy, while also being a gateway to recreational activities, including hunting and fishing, attracting visitors to its scenic landscapes and natural beauty.
Brief timeline of the history of Tripp County, South Dakota:

  • 1868 - Treaty of Fort Laramie establishes the Great Sioux Reservation, which includes the future area of Tripp County
  • 1897 - Tripp County is created by South Dakota Legislature and named after lawyer and politician Bartlett Tripp
  • 1909 - Winner becomes the county seat, after a contentious battle with Dallas
  • 1929 - The stock market crash and ensuing Great Depression hit Tripp County hard, leading to economic hardships
  • 1942-1945 - World War II sees many residents of Tripp County joining the military and contributing to the war effort
  • 1959 - Construction of the Fort Randall Dam begins on the Missouri River, providing electricity and flood control to the region
  • 1977 - A major blizzard hits Tripp County causing significant livestock losses
  • 2006 - A tornado strikes the town of Winner, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure
  • 2019 - Tripp County celebrates its 122nd anniversary since its establishment

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