May 3 may seem like an ordinary day to some, but it holds specific significance in South Dakota's history. Here are five interesting facts about May 3 in South Dakota's history:

1. In 1852, the first edition of the South Dakota newspaper "The Custer Chronicle" was published on May 3. The publication carried news about politics, business, and social events, primarily catering to the residents of Custer and its surrounding areas.

2. May 3, 1881, witnessed the founding of the town of Wessington Springs. The town, located in Jerauld County, was named after John A. Wessington, a prominent landowner in the area. The Wessington Springs State Bank building, constructed in 1902, is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

3. The University of South Dakota was established on May 3, 1862, under the Morrill Act, which provided federal support to establish land-grant colleges in every state. Initially known as the Dakota Agricultural College, the institution offered courses in agriculture, home economics, and mechanical arts.

4. May 3, 1975, marks the date on which the American Indian Movement (AIM) took over the town of Wounded Knee in South Dakota. The occupation continued for 71 days, during which AIM members protested against the federal government's Indian policies and demanded a renegotiation of treaties and land ownership rights.

5. The Rapid City Flood of 1972 occurred on June 9, but the events leading up to it began on May 3, when a massive snowstorm hit the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The storm dumped around 30 inches of snow in the area, which melted rapidly over the following weeks, causing the Flood. The disaster claimed 238 lives and caused extensive damage to infrastructure and property in the region.

In conclusion, May 3 holds particular significance in South Dakota's history as it witnessed the founding of towns, the establishment of universities, the publication of newspapers, and significant events such as the Wounded Knee occupation and the Rapid City Flood.