National Register Listing

Valley Springs Rest Stop Tipi

a.k.a. Valley Springs SRA

Mi. 412.1 on I-90, Valley Springs, SD
Local significance of the object:
Entertainment/recreation; Transportation; Art

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2015.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of South Dakota.
The Homestake Mine, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, was the largest and deepest gold mine in North America, producing over 40 million ounces of gold during its operation.
South Dakota random facts
Minnehaha County, SD has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. Prior to European settlement, the land was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Dakota Sioux. These tribes relied on the region's abundant natural resources for their sustenance and livelihood.

The area was first explored by Europeans in the early 18th century, with fur traders and trappers venturing into the region. In 1856, Minnehaha County was officially established as a county within the Dakota Territory. The county was named after the famous waterfall, Minnehaha Falls, mentioned in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem "The Song of Hiawatha."

As the years passed, the population of Minnehaha County grew steadily. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century played a significant role in the county's development and prosperity. The introduction of the railroad facilitated the transportation of goods and people, leading to increased settlement and economic growth in the region.

Minnehaha County has also seen its fair share of challenges and notable events. During the Great Depression in the 1930s, the county, like many others, faced economic hardships. However, the county's resilience and resourcefulness allowed it to rebound and rebuild in the following years.

Today, Minnehaha County remains an important hub within South Dakota. Its county seat, Sioux Falls, is the largest city in the state and serves as a center for commerce, industry, and culture. The county continues to grow and adapt to the changing needs of its residents, while simultaneously preserving its rich history and heritage.

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

  • 1862 - The Dakota Territory was established, which included the area that is now Minnehaha County.
  • 1868 - The Yankton Sioux Treaty was signed, opening up the region to settlement.
  • 1871 - Minnehaha County was officially organized and named after the famous waterfalls on the Minnesota River.
  • 1873 - Sioux Falls, the county seat, was incorporated as a city.
  • 1881 - The Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad reached Sioux Falls, boosting the local economy.
  • 1890 - The population of Minnehaha County exceeded 20,000.
  • 1908 - The Minnehaha County Courthouse was completed and still stands as a historic landmark.
  • 1920s - The Great Depression took a toll on the county, leading to economic struggles.
  • 1939 - The Sioux Falls Air National Guard Base was established.
  • 1996 - The Rapid City flood caused significant damage to Minnehaha County.
  • 2000s - Minnehaha County experienced steady population growth and development.
  • 2020 - Minnehaha County celebrated its 150th anniversary since organization.