Yankton County, SD

County in Southeast SD

Bordered on the south by the Missouri River, Yankton County has played an integral part in South Dakota history.

1861 heralded the first territorial government, with the City of Yankton being designated the capital of Dakota Territory. Steamboat trade flourished and in 1873 the first railroad line connected Yankton and Sioux City, Iowa.

The County was named for the Yankton band of the Sioux Indians. History suggests that Meriwether Lewis and George Rogers Clark were the first white men to set foot on Yankton County soil. Pelagie LaBarge is the first known white woman to journey to Yankton County, arriving in 1847 with her husband, a steamboat captain. Joseph R. Hanson was the first settler in 1859. 1861 also witnessed the first official newspaper, “The Weekly Dakotan”, being published.

The first school, held in the home of Dr. Abram Van Osdel, opened in December of 1862. Governor Howard selected Yankton County as the site for the state insane hospital in September of 1878. Yankton City and County lost the fight to retain the status of Territorial Capital in 1883 and the capital was moved to Bismark, ND.

The rich history of the County is preserved through many landmark buildings, historical sites and the written word.

Sponsors of Yankton County, SD


Since the founding of our communities, organizations, businesses and citizens have stepped forward to build and serve their community. Click on any of the logos below to learn about those who made this website possible! If you would like to learn about becoming a sponsor CLICK HERE!

Towns of Yankton County, SD


The small towns of the Midwest are rich in history and a great way of life! Below you can visit and learn about the small towns we call home! Towns that have their name highlighted have become FEATURED TOWNS. Businesses/organizations from these towns have stepped forward as SPONSORS enabling us to include (or will include as acquired) stories and website links to ALL their community organizations (chambers, groups and departments, etc.), stories and website links to ALL their points of interest, annual festivals/events and stories done about their citizens, veterans and faith community. To learn how to become a featured town CLICK HERE!

Events of Yankton County, SD


The small towns of the Midwest have long shared pride in their communities through festivals and events! Citizens from each community, working together, continue to offer entertainment options that not only appeal to their citizens, but visitors to their community! Below you will find festivals and events you are sure to want to attend! If you would like to have (DST) include an annual festival or event on your town and county page CLICK HERE!