Beadle County is located in the north-central region of South Dakota, bordered by Kingsbury, Sanborn, Jerauld, and Hand Counties. See Countryaah – Counties in South Dakota. The county seat is Huron and its largest city is Huron. Beadle County covers an area of 1,144 square miles with a population of 17,817 people (according to the 2019 U.S. Census).
Kingsbury County borders Beadle County to the north and east, with its county seat in De Smet. With a total area of 622 square miles and a population of 5,162 people (as per the 2019 U.S. Census), Kingsbury County is home to several small towns such as De Smet and Lake Preston as well as a number of lakes and parks for visitors to enjoy.
Sanborn County borders Beadle County to the south and east with its county seat in Woonsocket. With an area of 778 square miles and a population of 2,467 people (as per the 2019 U.S. Census), Sanborn County has several small towns such as Woonsocket and Artesian as well as various recreational opportunities including camping sites and hiking trails throughout the county’s many forests and lakes.
Jerauld County borders Beadle County to the south with its county seat in Wessington Springs. With an area of 514 square miles and a population of 2,082 people (as per the 2019 U.S. Census), Jerauld County features several small towns such as Wessington Springs and Alpena as well as numerous recreational activities for visitors including hunting areas, fishing spots, hiking trails, camping sites, golf courses, museums, etcetera.
Finally, Hand County borders Beadle County to the west with its county seat being Miller. With an area of 807 square miles and a population of 3127 people (as per the 2019 U.S census), Hand County has several small towns such as Miller and Orient along with various recreational activities for visitors including golf courses, hunting areas, fishing spots, camping sites, hiking trails, etcetera.
Demographics of Beadle County, South Dakota
Beadle County has an estimated population of 17,817 people, according to the 2019 U.S. Census. The racial makeup of the county is 94.3% White, 0.3% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 3.5% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.8% of the population.
The median age in Beadle County is 37 years old with a gender ratio of 48 percent male and 52 percent female (as per the 2019 U.S Census). The median household income in the county is $51,764 and the median home value is $115,400 (as per the 2019 U.S Census). Additionally, 18 percent of Beadle County’s population lives below the poverty line (as per the 2019 U.S Census).
In terms of educational attainment for those aged 25 years and over in Beadle County: 8 percent have less than a high school diploma; 20 percent have some college or associate’s degree; 24 percent have a bachelor’s degree; and 8 percent have a graduate or professional degree (as per the 2019 U.S Census).
Places of Interest in Beadle County, South Dakota
Beadle County is situated in the heart of South Dakota, offering a wealth of recreational activities and places of interest for visitors. From hiking trails and camping sites to golf courses and museums, there is something for everyone.
The county has several parks, including Wylie Park, which offers swimming beaches, cabins, picnic areas, and a variety of other activities. The park also has a campground with over 200 sites available for tents or RV camping.
The Beadle County Historical Museum is located in Huron and features a variety of artifacts from the area’s past. It also displays items from the Dakota Territory era as well as the early years of statehood. Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace or take guided tours for more in-depth information about the history of Beadle County.
For those looking to explore nature, there are numerous hiking trails throughout Beadle County providing breathtaking views of its rolling hills and natural beauty. The area also boasts several fishing spots along with hunting areas for deer and pheasant hunting during certain times of year.
The town of Huron also features two golf courses: Lakeview Golf Course and Oakwood Golf Course; both offer 18-hole courses designed by renowned golf architects. Additionally, there are several restaurants throughout Beadle County serving up traditional American fare as well as Mexican cuisine.
No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, Beadle County has something to offer everyone.
Notable People of Beadle County, South Dakota
Beadle County, South Dakota has a long and storied history and has produced some notable figures throughout the years. One of the most famous natives of Beadle County is former United States Senator George McGovern, who served from 1963 to 1981 and was the Democratic presidential nominee in 1972.
Another well-known individual from Beadle County is writer Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the popular Little House on the Prairie series. Wilder was born in Pepin, Wisconsin but spent much of her childhood in De Smet, South Dakota which is located in Beadle County.
The county has also been home to several professional athletes including NBA player Mike Miller and NFL players Dave Bakhtiari and Nate Gerwig. Miller attended Mitchell High School before going on to have an impressive career in the NBA while Bakhtiari and Gerwig both attended Huron High School before playing college football at Colorado State University and Augustana College respectively.
In addition to these notable individuals, Beadle County is also home to a diverse array of artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, politicians and more. From authors such as Shirley McHenry to business owners like Richard Aaker who founded the now-famous Aaker’s Markets chain; there are many inspiring people who have come out of Beadle County over the years.
From its fascinating history to its inspiring citizens, there’s no denying that Beadle County has a lot to offer.