1. The state of South Dakota was officially admitted to the Union on November 2, 1889, but it was on February 1, 1890 that the first state legislature was convened in Pierre, the capital city. The session was held in the newly constructed state capitol building, which still stands today and is a landmark of South Dakota.

2. On February 1, 1863, the Dakota Territory was established by an act of the U.S. Congress. This vast area, which covered much of present-day North and South Dakota, as well as parts of Minnesota and Montana, was divided into several smaller territories in the decades that followed.

3. February 1, 1914 saw the establishment of the South Dakota State Park system, with the creation of Custer State Park. This beautiful natural area, located in the Black Hills region of the state, has since become one of South Dakota's most popular tourist destinations, known for its scenic drives, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.

4. Winter weather can be harsh in South Dakota, and February 1, 1978 saw one of the most severe blizzards in the state's history. Dubbed the "Great Blizzard of '78," this storm dumped over 20 inches of snow in some areas and caused widespread disruption, including the closure of the state's major highways and airports.

5. Finally, February 1 is an important date in the history of the Sioux Falls city government. On this day in 1883, the city's first mayor, Isaac Sawyer, was sworn into office. Since then, Sioux Falls has grown into the largest city in South Dakota, with a population of over 170,000 people.