Add an Article Add an Event Edit

Prairie Homestead

21070 SD Hwy 240,
605-433-5400

The Prairie Homestead, an original sod home of Mr. & Mrs. Ed Brown, was built in 1909. It is typical of the homes and outbuildings that pioneers built.

This home is one of the last remaining original sod homes intact today. These pioneers played a very important part in settling the Great Plains.

This area of South Dakota was one of the last places to be homesteaded. Visual memories of homestead days are fast becoming extinct. These sod dugouts and shanties were common throughout the prairie. Almost all have disappeared, melted away by the prairie rains, caved in and returned to the earth from which they came.

 

You are sure to find some great souvenirs in our newly remodeled gift shop and visitor center.

The gift shop features antiques, pioneer souvenirs, western artwork, custom designed t-shirts, and more. The visitor center and snack bar includes a handicap accessible restrooms.


Photos