You have studied South Dakota history and have read all the books there are to read about our Native American, mining, and railroad past, but have you ever taken the time to peruse through historic photos of South Dakota? Today, we are excited to share a few rare glimpses from the past via these 11 historical South Dakota photos that show us what it was like living in the state in the early 1900s.

1. When you visit Chamberlain today, you will find the iconic Dignity sculpture, plus the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, delicious restaurants, unique shopping, and welcoming residents. While the museum and statue are newer, you would still find much to be the same in town back in 1911.
Unknown author/Wikimedia Commons
2. It's hard to believe that we are only a few generations removed from horse and wagon being the norm! That's exactly the mode of transportation these suffragists used to get around a mere 100 years ago (1920).
Unknown author/Wikimedia Commons
3. This historic photo of South Dakota proves that even in 1910, downtown Aberdeen was the place to be!
N. A. Brothers/Wikimedia Commons
4. This shot of "Andrew Standing Soldier, Sioux Indian, painting mural in auditorium, OD School, Pine Ridge" may be nearing the mid-1900s (1940) but is stunning nonetheless.
Photogrammar/John Vachon
5. 1900 Deadwood was chock-full of mines, homes, saloons, brothels, and other various businesses.
H. R. Locke & Co./Wikimedia Commons

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6. Speaking of mines, here is a shot of SoDak's biggest and most prosperous mine: the Homestake Mine in Lead (c. 1900).
Detroit Publishing Co./Wikimedia Commons
7. This is a shot that should resonate with everyone - harvest in SoDak! Showcasing South Dakota history, this shot was taken near Brookings, 1905.
Doane Robinson/Wikimedia Commons
8. No collection of historic photos of South Dakota would be complete without a shot of the South Dakota State Capitol. This shot was snapped in 1919.
Internet Archive Book Images/Wikimedia Commons
9. From the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs: "Family camp near Kenel, South Dakota" (1939).
Unknown author/Wikimedia Commons
10. Another inspiring shot of history-changing suffragists (via the staff of South Dakota's suffrage school (1918).
Alice Stone Blackwell/Wikimedia Commons
11. Target < Bee Hive Co. Clothing Story, Sioux Falls (1910).
Unknown author/Wikimedia Commons

So, what did you think of these historic photos of South Dakota? Have you already seen these photos? Have any of your own historic South Dakota photos you’d like to share? Whatever it is, we want to hear from you, so share your thoughts with us!

For even more fascinating South Dakota history, check out these interesting facts about South Dakota, which are so unbelievable, you won’t find them in history books.

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Historic Photos Of South Dakota

Daniella DiRienzo | May 02, 2023

What are the best places to soak in South Dakota history?

South Dakota has a rich history that is reflected in its many historic attractions. Some of the best historic attractions in South Dakota include:

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial: This iconic national monument is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. Carved into the side of a mountain, the monument features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.
  • Deadwood: This historic mining town was once a hotspot for gold prospectors and notorious outlaws like Wild Bill Hickok. Today, visitors can explore its colorful past by visiting museums, saloons, and other historic sites.
  • Badlands National Park: This stunning national park is home to some of the most unique geological formations in the world, including layered rock formations and deep canyons. It also contains evidence of ancient mammals, including saber-toothed cats and rhinoceroses.

 

What are some interesting facts about South Dakota?

With such a rich history, there are lots of interesting facts about South Dakota. Here are just a few interesting facts about South Dakota:

  • South Dakota is known as the "Mount Rushmore State" because Mount Rushmore National Memorial is located there. The iconic monument features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.
  • The Black Hills region of South Dakota is sacred to the Lakota Sioux and other Native American tribes. The area is home to many important cultural and spiritual sites, including Bear Butte, Wind Cave, and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
  • South Dakota is the only U.S. state that is home to two major rivers, the Missouri and the Big Sioux. The Missouri River is the longest river in North America, stretching over 2,300 miles from Montana to Missouri.

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