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South Dakota's 66 Counties
When it comes to South Dakota counties, how many is too many? Sixty-six might seem like a lot, but we wouldn't want to cross a single one off the map. Each county has its own blend of history, landscape and culture — and that special blend is reflected in the people we find there. John Andrews is celebrating the fun, interesting things that make each South Dakota county unique in this series of web columns.
As our managing editor, web editor and history columnist, John Andrews writes features, edits our many departments and oversees the day to day writing of the magazine. A Lake Norden native, John attended SDSU, wrote for the Brookings Register and earned a master's degree in history at USD before joining our staff. Read more of John's work in his online columns or in each issue of South Dakota Magazine.
Inspired by McCook County
March 14, 2017
The land of fishing, baseball, geese on wheels and a 60-foot longhorn. Photo by Stacey Stoddard/S.D. Tourism.
Keeping Tabs on Jerauld County
January 10, 2017
When we aren’t in the Wessington Hills country, the True Dakotan is the next best thing.
Getting to Know Deuel
October 11, 2016
I’ve learned a lot about my old county neighbor. Photo by Christian Begeman
Cattle and Hogs
June 14, 2016
Meade County is ranch country, but it’s also famous for hogs — the two-wheeled kind.
Explorers, Cowboys and Indians
May 17, 2016
The three have clashed, but they’ve been instrumental in shaping Stanley County.
New Days in Aurora County
May 3, 2016
There have been ups and downs, but hope is never further than its namesake.
Untamed Harding County
April 19, 2016
Ancient art, a deadly wolf and a legendary horse all come from our great Northwest. Photo by Harlan Humphrey.
County of Extremes
February 23, 2016
You’ll find the smallest, the tallest and the hottest, but there are deeper stories in Buffalo County.
A Strange Fascination
February 9, 2016
Ranches, buttes and the mysterious White River captivate in Mellette County. Photo by Stephen Gassman.
Hyde County: Always Divided
January 26, 2016
Business and agriculture have been up for debate here since 1883.
Between the Reservations
December 29, 2015
It’s not officially part of Pine Ridge or Rosebud, but Lakota culture remains strong in Bennett County.
A Mighty Fair County
December 15, 2015
The summertime fair in Turner County is a must-visit, but that’s just the start.