8 Time-Capsule Towns in South Dakota
In 1889, South Dakota became the 40th state admitted to the United States. When gold was discovered in the Black Hills, it incited a significant influx of settlers, prospectors, and trappers. With an increase in population, communities needed to be built, which included homes, doctors’ offices, food stores, and, of course, bars and casinos. South Dakota was built from the ground up, and many of those smaller towns still operate the same as the day they were erected. Find the magic in these eight time capsule towns in South Dakota.
Deadwood
Deadwood is not only locked in the past, but also offers its visitors reenactments of that past. At Deadwood Alive, experience the thrills of Mainstreet Shootouts and the Trial of Jack McCall. Guided walking tours, musical performances, and stagecoach rides are also available. Settle into the Deadwood Stagecoach and be part of the history of one of the most recognizable Old West Icons. More enriching local history can be explored at the Days of 76′ Museum. The museum was erected to honor the town’s early pioneers, prospectors, miners, muleskinners, and madams, and annually hosts a parade and rodeo event. Wagons, stagecoaches, carriages, clothing, memorabilia, and archives are all on display. A major part of Deadwood’s history is contributing to the Gold Rush. Engage in that history at the Broken Boot Gold Mine by taking an underground tour of caves that prospectors of the past carved out for mining. After touring the same mines that were used over 100 years ago, try your own hand at panning for gold.
Midland
Hailed as South Dakota’s original 1880 Town, Midland is a place that time forgot. Step back in time to that blast from the past at the popular attraction, 1880 Town. When the 14 acres were purchased, there was no original intent of turning it into a tourist attraction, but the filming of a movie referencing life in the 1880s used the land for production, and a main street and rustic-looking buildings were created. Gifted to the land owner as a thank you, the historic replicas eventually became the attraction it is today. Catch a musical at the saloon, witness a western shootout, or enjoy lunch at the 50s Diner. The restaurant is housed in a train that originally ran from Chicago to California before finding its final resting place in 1880 Town. It features memorabilia from the 1950s and serves lunch while being known for its hard ice cream and root beer floats. For another enticing stop in this historic town, visit the Casey Tibbs Museum. The showcase memorializes a 9-time World Champion Rodeo Cowboy, who traveled the rodeo circuit as a champion bronc rider. The exhibit features one of his saddles, belt buckles, jackets, hats, photographs, event advertisements, and other personal possessions from the famed rider.
De Smet
One of the U.S.’s most famed authors, Laura Ingalls Wilder, held strong roots in the small town of De Smet. The Little House on the Prairie author called De Smet home for many years, and tributes and relics of her are scattered throughout. Honor her legacy with a visit to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Homes compound. On the property, the homes and school from her life and novels are found, including the original Ingalls Home, which was built by her father in 1887 and completed in 1889. Another Wilder-related site is the Ingalls Homestead. Offering multiple attractions, including covered wagon rides, pony rides, and hands-on activities, the homestead is a fun and creative way to experience life the way the Ingalls family and others did back on the prairie. Dive even deeper into the history of De Smet through the Depot Museum. The museum contains historical information and artifacts related to vintage clothing, wildlife, appliances, musical equipment, childhood toys, and more. The building itself provides historical relevance as well as connections to the Ingalls family. They previously lived in the original Surveyor’s Shanty.
Galena
At the height of its population, the town of Galena had roughly 2,000 residents. Today, only a few families remain in this ghost town that once bustled with miners. This historic mining camp still houses the abandon buildings from when the inhabitants up and left, and leave an eerie feeling for their visitors. The Vinegar Hill Cemetery may be located in this ghost town, but that doesn’t mean it's haunted. Or does it? Respectfully stroll through the plots, which have many dates dating back to the 1800s. From “Unknown” graves to the infamous Aunt Sally, this untouched graveyard is the final resting place for past populations. The 1882 Galena School House is also still standing, and surprisingly, in good shape. After it closed in 1943, the Galena Historical Society took it over and has maintained its condition. The historical society occasionally hosts surrounding schools for tours of the ancient schoolhouse so students can see how schools used to operate. Many other unmarked buildings are still standing, and some are dilapidated, but walking the grounds will feel like a time machine taking visitors back to a simpler time that no longer exists. Once a year, the Galena Ghost Town Walk is offered to anyone who wishes to join and takes you on a thrilling walk to the Hercules Walls. Past the cemetery, the Hercules Walls were built up for a mine that was never constructed. Although they didn’t live up to their full intention, due to a lack of financing, the walls themselves are an attestation to the extraordinary stone craftsmanship often found in Western mining regions.
Wall
Since 1931, one of Wall’s largest, unchanging attractions has been a classic general store. Once widely hailed as a necessary establishment, general stores have slowly been getting replaced by convenience stores and even bigger chain stores. Far and few between, some still exist, generally in smaller towns and communities. And Wall Drug is one of those surviving and thriving general stores. This drug store offers dining, activities, souvenirs, and gifts to its nearly two million annual visitors. Acclaimed for their free ice water, they offered weary travelers a bustling hub that struggled to get off its feet when it first opened, but now sees no end in sight. Not only are their establishments rich with history, but also their landmarks and milestones. For a natural wonder, Venture to the richest fossil beds in the world at Badlands National Park, the same geological deposits that prehistoric horses and rhinos once roamed. Hike the dusty trails, pitch a tent under the stars, or participate in the Night Sky Viewing programs. For unique art enthusiasts, a visit to Dahls’ Chainsaw Art is just the ticket. The internationally recognized chainsaw artist brothers create intricate works from Black Hills pine and other local woods. Their structures vary from Bigfoot to eagles to archways. Visit the workshop and view the artwork found against the picturesque backdrop of the Black Hills.
Mitchell
The main attraction in the town of Mitchell is undoubtedly one of the most diverse tourist attractions available. Hailed as The World’s Only Corn Palace, this unique establishment is constantly redecorated with new corn, grain, and grass to showcase a new theme. Along with the foliage creating a theme, a new mural is painted annually with a different theme. However, popular all year round, the best time to visit is during the annual Corn Palace Festival. Showcase your own talents through the Festival Exhibit Book, ride a carnival ride, or listen to the live performers. Immerse yourself in history at the Dakota Discovery Museum. The museum exists to preserve and promote the heritage of the Native American and immigrant people of the Middle Border states, focusing on the time frame from the 1600s to 1939. Through interpretation of the museum's collection to the public through educational tours, permanent exhibitions, and special programming, preservation is achieved. Artifacts, murals, clothing, tools, and memories are just a few of the relics on display. Another museum providing local history is the McGovern Legacy Museum. The museum applauds two of Dakota Wesleyan University’s most recognizable graduates, George and Eleanor McGovern. Beginning during World War II, the display follows their years as Democratic Party leaders up to the 1972 presidential election. Their family life, George’s political career, and current fight to end world hunger are all featured exhibits.
Keystone
Gold mining and railroad development are two of South Dakota’s historical achievements, and those achievements can be celebrated in the local museums and activities. At Big Thunder Gold Mine, visitors have the opportunity not only to tour the abandoned gold mines but also to try panning for gold themselves. Although long since uninhabited, the mine is in near-perfect condition and is hailed as the safest and most maintained mine in the Keystone mining district. To this day, it still contains indigenous rocks, structures, and minerals. For another historically themed hands-on event, ride the 1880 Train. The 10-mile trek takes one hour and includes a narrated history of the mining districts and local communities served by the original rail line. Sharp curves, steep grades, and mountain terrain all make for an unforgettable journey. For a final stop in not only Keystone’s history, but also the nation’s, visit one of the largest (literally) monuments dedicated to presidential royalty. Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the likeness of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into the Black Hills. The U.S.’s birth, growth, development, and preservation are detailed in this larger-than-life testimonial.
Sturgis
The town of Sturgis has made itself historically synonymous with Harley-Davidson. Every year, thousands upon thousands of bikers from all over the U.S. come in droves to celebrate the coveted event, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. For those wanting to participate or just learn more about its reason for popularity, visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame. The museum seeks to collect, preserve, and showcase the history of motorcycling and the impact the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has had on the local community. Displays include a photo gallery from previous rallies, exotic bikes, antique bikes, and a replica 1920s cycle shop. For more riding-related fun that caters to the Harley and Indian Chief motorcyclists, visit the Iron Horse Saloon. Concerts are held during the rally for all spectators and are free to attend. The saloon is a sprawling 25,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor entertainment space. Three stories tall, each with its own balcony to oversee the events or enjoy a meal, the venue has ample opportunities for entertainment. For those Sturgis tourists who aren’t too keen on motorcycle-related activities, a trip outdoors would be enjoyed at Bear Butte State Park. Millions of years ago, in the Black Hills, the mountain formed from igneous rock, and to this day, it is still a sacred ground to American Indian tribes to hold religious ceremonies. Hiking, fishing, and boating are permitted in the historical area, but be respectful of the prayer cloths and tobacco ties scattered amongst the branches. These items represent offerings and prayers left behind.
Gold mining, ghost towns, train depots, and motorcycles are all part of South Dakota’s rich history. Each town boasts its own uniqueness and famed attraction or event, one more exclusive than the next, but all equally important in shaping the town’s culture and community. These towns have stood the test of time with little to no change since the start of their existence and thrive in their historical roots. For your next venture, you trek to South Dakota, so don’t skip a trip to any of these eight time capsule towns.
