1. In 1881, the Dakota Territory legislature chose Pierre as the permanent capital of the territory. Prior to this decision, the capital had moved frequently between various cities.

2. South Dakota State University was founded on February 25, 1881, just hours before the capital decision was made. The university was initially called Dakota Agricultural College.

3. In 1904, the Oahe Dam was authorized by the U.S. Congress. The dam, which was completed in 1958, created Lake Oahe, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States. Lake Oahe spans 231 miles and has a maximum depth of 205 feet.

4. On February 25, 1919, Governor Peter Norbeck signed a bill that established the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department. The department is responsible for the management and conservation of the state's wildlife, fisheries, and parks.

5. In 1986, South Dakota Governor Bill Janklow announced that Ellsworth Air Force Base would remain open despite a proposal to close the base. Ellsworth is located near Rapid City and is home to the B-1 bomber. The base employs thousands of people and is a crucial part of the state's economy.