Ziebach county, located in the western part of South Dakota, was established in 1911. Over the years, the county has seen its fair share of changes, from its name to its way of life. Here are seven interesting facts that make Ziebach county a unique place in South Dakota history.
1. It's named after Frank M. Ziebach
Ziebach county is named after Frank M. Ziebach, a rancher and South Dakota politician who died in 1908. He was a prominent figure in the state, serving two terms in the State Legislature and running unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate in 1896.
2. It's the poorest county in the country
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ziebach county has the lowest per capita income of any county in the United States. In 2018, the per capita income was just $7,768, well below the national average.
3. It's home to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe
In addition to its small population of non-Native Americans, Ziebach county is home to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. The tribe's headquarters are located in Eagle Butte, which is also the county seat.
4. It was originally part of Meade county
Before it became its own county in 1911, Ziebach county was part of Meade county. Ziebach, along with neighboring counties of Harding and Perkins, were carved out of Meade county to create more manageable county sizes.
5. It's the site of an annual powwow
Every year, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe hosts the annual Labor Day Powwow in Ziebach county. The powwow celebrates Native American culture and features traditional dancing, singing, and drumming.
6. It's home to a ghost town
Ziebach county is home to a ghost town called Red Scaffold. The town was established in the late 1800s as a trading post but was abandoned in the early 1900s. Today, all that remains are a few deserted buildings and a cemetery.
7. It's prone to severe weather
Like much of the Great Plains region, Ziebach county is prone to severe weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and blizzards. In 2010, the county was hit hard by a tornado that caused widespread damage and injured several people.
These seven interesting facts are just a small glimpse into the history and way of life in Ziebach county. From its rich Native American culture to its often harsh weather conditions, Ziebach county is a unique and fascinating place in South Dakota history.
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