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Meade County, located in western South Dakota, has a rich and fascinating history. Here are 7 interesting facts about this county:
1. Home to Mount Rushmore: Meade County is home to one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States - Mount Rushmore. This popular tourist attraction was created by sculptor Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941 and features the faces of former U.S. Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
2. Buffalo soldiers stationed at Fort Meade: During the late 1800s, the U.S. Army established Fort Meade in Meade County as a means of protecting the Black Hills region and managing Native American tribes in the area. African American troops, known as Buffalo soldiers, were stationed at Fort Meade from 1878 until the early 1900s.
3. The Gold Rush: The 1874 discovery of gold in the Black Hills region had a significant impact on Meade County. Thousands of miners flocked to the area in search of their fortunes, leading to the establishment of towns such as Deadwood, which still attracts tourists to this day.
4. Badlands National Park: Meade County is also home to part of Badlands National Park, which spans over 244,000 acres. This unique landscape features stunning rock formations, colorful canyons, and a variety of wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.
5. The Black Hills Central Railroad: Meade County is home to the Black Hills Central Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge railroad that operated from 1886 until the early 1950s. The railroad now offers scenic tours through the beautiful Black Hills region.
6. The Battle of Slim Buttes: One of the most significant battles of the Great Sioux War of 1876-77 took place in Meade County. The Battle of Slim Buttes, fought on September 9, 1876, resulted in a significant victory for the U.S. Army.
7. The South Dakota National Guard: Camp Rapid, located in Meade County, is the primary training center for the South Dakota National Guard. This facility provides training for soldiers, airmen, and civilians and plays an essential role in national defense.
Meade County's history is shaped by its unique geography and the many significant events that have occurred in the area. From the gold rush to Mount Rushmore, this county has something for everyone to enjoy and discover.
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