Historical Markers in
Campbell County, South Dakota

Flint Store and Post Office Hoffnungstal EV. Lutheran Church Lewis and Clark and the Legend of Stone Idol Creek/Lewis and Clark Expedition Meet The Arikara Lewis and Clark/Pollock, South Dakota Mound City, South Dakota Old Pollock/Lot Distribution in New Pollock/Lake Pocasse Pollock, South Dakota Settlers / National Bicentennial Wagon Train You are about to enter South Dakota / You are now leaving South Dakota
The Lewis and Clark expedition, which explored much of the western United States in the early 19th century, passed through what is now South Dakota.
South Dakota random facts
Campbell County, SD, located in the north-central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The region initially belonged to the Lakota Sioux tribe, who inhabited the area long before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 1800s, fur traders and explorers began venturing into the area, establishing trade routes and temporary settlements.

In the late 1800s, with the completion of the Northern Pacific Railroad, the region experienced a significant influx of settlers. Campbell County was officially established in 1873 and named after John Allen Campbell, the governor of the Dakota Territory at the time. The county quickly grew as more people flocked to the area in search of land for farming and ranching.

The early years of Campbell County were marked by the establishment of small towns, such as Mound City and Herreid, which served as hubs for trade and commerce. The agricultural industry became the backbone of the local economy, with settlers cultivating crops like wheat, barley, and corn, as well as raising livestock.

Throughout the 20th century, Campbell County continued to develop and evolve. The construction of highways and improved infrastructure contributed to the growth and prosperity of the region. Today, the county remains primarily rural, with agriculture playing a significant role in its economy. Its rich history is celebrated and preserved through local museums, historical sites, and community events.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Campbell County, South Dakota.

  • 1890 - Campbell County is established on March 8, 1890.
  • 1891 - The first post office is established in Herreid.
  • 1892 - The county's first courthouse is built in Mound City.
  • 1908 - The Chicago, Milwaukee, and Saint Paul Railroad reaches the county.
  • 1927 - Major flooding occurs along the Grand River.
  • 1939 - Electrification of rural areas begins with the creation of the Campbell County Electric Cooperative.
  • 1959 - The Herreid School District is formed.
  • 1972 - Mound City Elementary School is built, replacing several small rural schools.
  • 1997 - Construction of the Grand River Dam is completed.
  • 2007 - A wind farm is established in Campbell County, contributing to renewable energy production.
  • 2010 - The county's population reaches its peak at 1,466 residents.