National Register Listing

Hyde County Memorial Auditorium

200 2nd St SW, Highmore, SD
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Entertainment/recreation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2018.

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.

architecture entertainment recreation
Audiobooks about the history of South Dakota.
The town of Mitchell, South Dakota is home to the world's only corn palace, a building decorated entirely with corn and other grains.
South Dakota random facts
Hyde County, located in the state of South Dakota, has a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lakota Sioux, who utilized the land for hunting and gathering. European settlers began arriving in the late 1800s, attracted by the promise of fertile soil and the opportunity to establish farms and ranches.

In 1883, Hyde County was officially established and named after James Hyde, a prominent politician and businessman from the area. The county quickly developed as pioneers built homes and established towns such as Highmore, the county seat. Agriculture became the backbone of the local economy, with crops like wheat, corn, and barley being grown, while cattle and sheep ranching also became significant.

Over the years, Hyde County experienced both prosperity and challenges. The arrival of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and Pacific Railroad in the early 1900s brought increased transportation options for farmers and further spurred economic growth. However, like many other agricultural communities, the county faced hardships during the Great Depression when market prices for crops plummeted, leading to financial difficulties for many families.

In the latter half of the 20th century, technological advancements in agriculture and irrigation systems improved farming practices, allowing for increased productivity. Today, Hyde County remains an agricultural hub, known for its vast fields and livestock production. The county also attracts outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing in its picturesque landscapes. With a resilient spirit and a rich history, Hyde County continues to thrive as it embraces both its agricultural heritage and the beauty of its natural surroundings.

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

  • 1862 - The Homestead Act is passed by the United States Congress, encouraging settlement of the American West.
  • 1872 - Hyde County is established as a county in the Dakota Territory.
  • 1878 - The town of Highmore is officially founded.
  • 1880 - The Chicago and Northwestern Railroad reaches Hyde County, bringing increased opportunities for transportation and trade.
  • 1883 - The Burke Act is passed, allowing Native Americans to convert their communal land into individual ownership, leading to further settlement in the region.
  • 1910 - The population of Hyde County peaks at around 7,500 residents.
  • 1920 - The county experiences a decline in population due to the general economic downturn and the Dust Bowl.
  • 1942 - Construction of nearby Oahe Dam begins, leading to the displacement of several communities but also providing new opportunities for irrigation and electricity.
  • 1950s - The agriculture industry in Hyde County experiences a period of growth and modernization, with the introduction of new farming techniques and machinery.
  • 2000s - Hyde County continues to be primarily rural and agriculturally focused, with a population of around 1,400 residents.