1. In 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition traveled through what is now South Dakota on August 24th, crossing the Missouri River near present-day Mobridge. They were exploring the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase territory and seeking a water route to the Pacific Ocean.

2. On August 24th, 1857, a group of Mormon pioneers known as the Willie Handcart Company arrived at Fort Bridger in present-day Wyoming, on their way to Utah. The company had experienced significant hardship and tragedy on their journey west, and their arrival at Fort Bridger signaled the beginning of the end of their ordeal.

3. In 1954, the town of Parker, South Dakota, experienced a devastating tornado on August 24th. The tornado destroyed much of the town, killing six people and injuring many more. It remains one of the deadliest tornadoes in South Dakota history.

4. On August 24th, 1972, a United Airlines plane flying from New York to Los Angeles crashed in Sioux City, Iowa, killing 112 people. The crash had a profound impact on the small town of Sioux City, which rallied to help the survivors and families of the victims.

5. In 2018, a new sculpture was unveiled in downtown Sioux Falls on August 24th. The sculpture, titled "Flux," was created by local artist David St. Common and features a series of stainless steel rings that reflect the changing sky and surrounding buildings. It has become a beloved landmark in the city.