Corson County, located in the northern part of South Dakota, has an interesting and rich history. Here are 7 interesting facts about Corson County in South Dakota's history:
1. Corson County was named after Dighton Corson, a territorial legislator who helped establish Dakota Territory in the 1850s. The county was founded in 1909 and has a population of just over 4,000 people.
2. Before the arrival of European settlers, the land that now makes up Corson County was home to several indigenous tribes, including the Lakota Sioux. Today, the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation spans parts of Corson County and neighboring North Dakota.
3. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Corson County was a hub for cattle ranching. The county's vast grasslands provided ample grazing land for thousands of cattle, and ranching remains an important part of the local economy to this day.
4. In the early 20th century, Corson County was also home to several small mining communities. The most notable of these was the town of Dewey, which produced silver, zinc, and gold. Today, there are no active mines in Corson County.
5. During the Great Depression, Corson County was hit hard by drought and economic hardship. Many families left the area in search of work, and the population declined significantly. It wasn't until after World War II that the county began to recover.
6. Corson County is home to several notable landmarks, including the Grand River National Grasslands, the Sitting Bull monument near Mobridge, and the historic St. Joseph's Indian School in Chamberlain.
7. The people of Corson County have a strong sense of community and pride in their history. Each year, they come together to celebrate the Mobridge Rodeo, one of the largest rodeos in South Dakota, and honor the county's agricultural heritage.
Overall, Corson County has played an important role in South Dakota's history, from its early days as a hub for cattle ranching and mining to its present-day status as a close-knit community with a rich cultural heritage.
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