South Dakotans often break the state into two neat halves divided by the Missouri River. Fertile soil in the eastern part of the state is used to grow a variety of crops, while ranching is the predominant agricultural activity in the west. Historically an agricultural economy and a rural lifestyle, South Dakota has recently sought to diversify its economy to attract and retain residents. However, it is still largely rural and has the fifth-lowest population density among U.S. states.
The travelers of US Highway 281 and visitors of South Dakota will find helpful and informative links at the end of this post. Enjoy, drive safely and ya'll come back.
Located in northeastern South Dakota on US Highway 281 we travel through the community of Aberdeen, third largest city of South Dakota. with 25,000 plus people in the area. Along the way we travel through the Redfield community which proclaims itself as the pheasant capital of the world. Pierre, is the state capital with Sioux Falls as the state's largest city.
South Dakota was part of the the Louisiana Purchase from France. In 1804, The Lewis & Clark Expedition traveled from St. Louis to the Pacific. The expedition passes through South Dakota twice. While camped near the mouth of the Bad River in 1804, the expedition raises the United States flag on 25 September 1804. This is the first time the U.S. flag was flown in South Dakota. By 1883, Dakota Territory had been reduced to what is now the States of South and North Dakota, Wyoming and Montana having been organized as separate territories.
South Dakota Fun Facts;
State Flower: American Pasqueflower
State Tree: Black Hills Spruce
State Bird: Ring-necked Pheasant.
State Nicknames: Mt. Rushmore State
State Sport: Rodeo.
State Gem Stone: Fairburn Agate.
State Jewelry: Black Hills Gold.
State Insect: Honey Bee.
State slogan: "Great Faces. Great Places."
State drink: Milk.
Famous South Dakotans:
Tom Brokaw (TV newscaster), Mary Hart (Entertainment Tonight TV host).
Helpful and Informative links for South Dakota;
South Dakota Tourism Website: South Dakota State Parks: South Dakota State Historical Society:
Current weather, road conditions & construction/closure information for South Dakota:
NOAA Weather: South Dakota Department of Transportation:
The Department of Agriculture is responsible for the promotion and enhancement of South Dakota Agriculture, and for the implementation of a variety of state laws relating to agriculture.
The Department of Agriculture Website:
The South Dakota Arts Council was established in 1966 and funded by the State Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts, the South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) is a state agency serving South Dakotans and their communities through the arts.
Enjoy, drive safely and ya'll come back...
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