National Register Listing

Wasta Rest Stop Tipi-Eastbound

a.k.a. Wasta SRA

Mi. 98.6 on I-90, Wasta, 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.

The first airplane to fly over the North Pole was piloted by South Dakota native Richard E. Byrd.
South Dakota random facts
Pennington County, South Dakota, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lakota Sioux, who relied on the abundant natural resources for their livelihoods. The area later became part of the Dakota Territory, established in 1861.

In the late 19th century, the discovery of gold in the Black Hills region sparked a rush of settlers to Pennington County. This led to conflicts between the Native Americans and the newcomers, culminating in the Battle of Wounded Knee in 1890, which marked the end of armed Native American resistance in the area. The mining industry continued to flourish, attracting people from all over the country, and the city of Rapid City was founded in 1876 to support this growing population.

During both World Wars, Pennington County played a significant role in supporting the war efforts. The area was used as a training ground for soldiers, and Ellsworth Air Force Base was established near Rapid City in 1942. The base played a crucial role in the Cold War, housing nuclear-armed B-52 bombers. Today, Ellsworth Air Force Base remains an important military installation.

In recent years, Pennington County has experienced growth in sectors such as tourism and education. The Black Hills attract visitors from around the world who come to see iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Rapid City has also become a hub for higher education, with institutions like South Dakota School of Mines and Technology promoting research and innovation in various fields. Overall, Pennington County's history is shaped by the blending of Native American heritage, mining booms, military activity, and modern advancements.

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

  • 1875: Pennington County is established as part of the Dakota Territory.
  • 1890: Rapid City is founded as the county seat.
  • 1893: The Black Hills and Badlands Forest Reserve is established, encompassing a large portion of Pennington County.
  • 1911: The Rapid City Weather Bureau Station is opened in Pennington County.
  • 1941-1945: During World War II, the Rapid City Army Air Base is constructed, bringing significant military presence to the county.
  • 1972: A disastrous flood hits Rapid City, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1980: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located in Pennington County, is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 1992: The Black Hills National Forest, including parts of Pennington County, is designated as a National Scenic Byway.
  • 2010: Rapid City's population exceeds 70,000, making it the second-largest city in South Dakota.