National Register Listings in
Moody County, South Dakota

Crystal Theatre Drake, Frank and Sarah, Claim House Egan Park Few, George, House First Presbyterian Church and Cemetery First Scandinavian Baptist Church Flandreau Masonic Temple Japanese Gardens Dance Pavilion Little Village Farm Sale Barn Moody County Courthouse Pettigrew Barns South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge No. 51-051-000 South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge No. 51-102-010 South Dakota Dept. of Trans. Br. No. 51-124-136 St. Vincent's Hotel
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
Moody County, South Dakota has a rich and diverse history that spans back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota Sioux and Yankton Sioux. Exploration and settlement by European Americans began in the mid-1800s, leading to the establishment of Moody County in 1873.

The county was named in honor of Gideon C. Moody, who was a prominent pioneer and territorial legislator in the region. The early years of settlement were primarily focused on agriculture, with farming and livestock becoming the main economic activities. The fertile soil and favorable climate in Moody County attracted many settlers, and the population grew steadily.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Moody County experienced a boom in population and development. Towns such as Flandreau, which became the county seat in 1880, saw significant growth and became important centers for trade, commerce, and social activities. The arrival of the railroad in Flandreau in the 1880s further facilitated economic growth and connected the county to wider markets.

Throughout its history, Moody County has faced challenges such as natural disasters and economic fluctuations, but the community has remained resilient and adapted to changing circumstances. Today, Moody County continues to be largely agrarian, with agriculture remaining a significant part of the local economy. The county also offers various recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and outdoor activities, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and proximity to lakes and rivers.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Moody County, South Dakota.

  • 1862 - The Dakota Territory, including Moody County, is established
  • 1873 - Moody County is created and named after G.M. Moody, a well-known territorial pioneer
  • 1879 - The city of Flandreau is incorporated
  • 1880 - The first courthouse is built in Flandreau
  • 1880s - The rail line is extended to Flandreau, boosting the local economy
  • 1898 - The first automobile arrives in Moody County
  • 1912 - A large tornado causes extensive damage in Flandreau
  • 1920s - Moody County experiences an oil boom
  • 1950s - Flandreau Indian School becomes an important economic and cultural center
  • 1973 - The Moody County Museum is established in Flandreau
  • 2000 - The population of Moody County reaches its highest point at over 7,000 residents
  • 2010 - The population of Moody County declines slightly to around 6,500 residents