1. In 1864, the historic Fort Sully was established by the US Army in what is now Hughes County. The fort served as a key supply and communications center during the Indian Wars and was home to thousands of soldiers and their families.

2. On August 28, 1889, rapid settlement of the Black Hills region began after President Benjamin Harrison signed the proclamation that opened up the land to homesteaders. Within months, hundreds of new settlers had arrived in the area to stake their claims.

3. The Dakota Territory State Fair held its first event on August 28, 1885, in Yankton. The ten-day event featured horse races, exhibits of livestock and agricultural products, and other attractions. Today, the South Dakota State Fair is one of the largest events in the state, drawing visitors from across the country.

4. In 1929, the iconic Corn Palace in Mitchell was dedicated on August 28. The unique building features murals made entirely out of corn and is a popular tourist attraction to this day.

5. On August 28, 1858, the first newspaper in what is now South Dakota was published in the town of Vermillion. The Dakota Democrat was a weekly publication that covered local news, politics, and social events. Today, South Dakota is home to dozens of newspapers, both in print and online.