National Register Listings in
Clay County, South Dakota

Anderson Homestead Andre, William, House Armory, Old,-Vermillion Austin-Whittemore House Bluff Historic District Bluff View Cemetery Chapel Building at 125 Ohio St. Burbank School No. 10 Clay County Courthouse Colton House Downtown Vermillion Historic District First Baptist Church of Vermillion First Methodist Episcopal Church First National Bank Building of Vermillion Forest Avenue Historic District Forest Avenue Historic District (Boundary Clarification and Additional Documentation) Garfield Township Hall Gunderson House Inman House Johnsen, Calle Nissen, Farm Junker, Jens N. and Anna, Farmstead Lincoln School #12 Linden House Messler, Daniel A., Homestead Old Main Prentis Park Rice Farm Sample-Lindblaum House South Dakota Department of Trans. Br. No. 14-130-176 South Dakota Department of Trans. Br. No. 14-133-170 South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge No. 14-060-032 South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge No. 14-088-170 South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge No. 14-090-042 Spirit Mound St. Agnes Catholic Church University Historic District Vermillion-Andrew Carnegie Library Wakonda State Bank Willey, E. H., House Yusten House
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
Clay County, located in southeastern South Dakota, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Yanktonai Sioux and the Omaha. The land was used for hunting, fishing, and gathering, and these tribes had a significant influence on the region's culture and traditions.

During the 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in Clay County. In 1859, the Vermillion River was dammed, creating Lake Vermillion and attracting more settlers to the area. The town of Vermillion was founded shortly afterward, becoming the county seat of Clay County in 1862. The discovery of gold in the nearby Black Hills in the 1870s further spurred growth and development in the region.

Clay County played a significant role in the development of the territory and later the state of South Dakota. It became a major transportation hub with the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s, connecting Vermillion to other parts of the country. The establishment of the University of South Dakota in Vermillion in 1882 added to the county's cultural and educational landscape.

Throughout the years, Clay County has experienced both prosperity and challenges. The agricultural industry, particularly corn and soybean farming, has been the backbone of the county's economy. However, like many other rural areas, Clay County has faced the issues of depopulation and economic decline in recent decades. Efforts are being made to revitalize the region, including promoting tourism, supporting local businesses, and attracting new residents.

Despite its ups and downs, Clay County maintains its historical charm and sense of community. The area's Native American heritage, pioneer spirit, and connection to education continue to shape its identity. Residents and visitors alike can explore the county's museums, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, providing a glimpse into its past and a promising future.

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

  • 1857 - Clay County is established by the Dakota Territorial Legislature.
  • 1862 - The Dakota War, also known as the Sioux Uprising, takes place, affecting the area that would become Clay County.
  • 1873 - Vermillion becomes the county seat of Clay County.
  • 1877 - The University of South Dakota is established in Vermillion.
  • 1882 - The Sioux City and Pacific Railroad is completed, connecting Vermillion to Sioux City, Iowa.
  • 1883 - Vermillion is incorporated as a city.
  • 1893 - Vermillion is devastated by a major fire that destroys 53 buildings.
  • 1903 - Clay County Courthouse is built in Vermillion.
  • 1910 - Vermillion reaches its peak population of over 4,000 residents.
  • 1927 - The Missouri River Flood causes significant damage to Vermillion.
  • 1946 - The National Music Museum, originally known as the Shrine to Music Museum, is founded in Vermillion.
  • 1963 - The University of South Dakota’s basketball team, Coyotes, win the NCAA College Division national championship.
  • 1972 - The W.H. Over Museum is established in Vermillion.
  • 1997 - The "Blizzard of '97" hits Clay County and causes widespread power outages.