Walworth County is a county located in the state of South Dakota with a rich history dating back to before the 19th century. Below are 7 interesting facts about Walworth County that you may find fascinating.
1. Walworth County was established in 1873 from parts of Campbell and McPherson Counties in the Dakota Territory. It was named after Walworth County, Wisconsin.
2. The first ever land office in South Dakota was situated in Walworth County. The office was established in 1879 and played a significant role in the rapid settlement of the region in the late 19th and early 20th century.
3. During World War II, a German prisoner of war camp was located in Walworth County. The camp was situated about 3 miles south of Selby and was used to house German prisoners who were captured during the Allied invasion of Europe.
4. Walworth County is the birthplace of writer and historian, Herbert Krause. Krause was born in Selby in 1932 and was well known for his contributions to the study of Native American history and culture.
5. The Gideon Monument located in Java, Walworth County, commemorates the life of a pioneer named Colonel John Gideon. The monument is in the shape of a horse and rider and was erected in 1915 by the Gideon family as a tribute to the Colonel's accomplishments.
6. Walworth County is home to the annual Polka Festival which takes place in the town of Ipswich. The festival is one of the biggest events in the county and features different polka bands from across the United States.
7. The county has a rich agricultural history and is known for cattle ranching and wheat farming. Walworth County is also home to one of the largest wind farms in South Dakota, which generates enough electricity to power over 30,000 homes.
In conclusion, Walworth County has a rich history with many interesting facts that make the county unique. From being the birthplace of a famous author to hosting an annual Polka festival, Walworth County has something for everyone. We hope you enjoyed reading this article and discovered something new about Walworth County in South Dakota.
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