Do you know the term “Midwest Nice?” I just so happen to think it was coined after a South Dakotan! If you are from the Mount Rushmore State (or know someone who is), you know there are certain things that make us stand out from everyone else, including these 8 best things about people from South Dakota:

1. We love our community.
They love their community. - People From South Dakota
Marilyn M / Flickr
Hometown pride is alive and well here in South Dakota! Whether it be city celebrations, parades, and/or block parties, there is always something fun happening here in SoDak.
2. We are family-oriented.
They are family-oriented. - People From South Dakota
Patrick Slaven / Flickr
If you were to ask people from South Dakota what they love best about the state, we can guarantee it would have something to do with how they love being close to their family. (Can you blame them/us?!)
3. We have pride.
They have pride. - People From South Dakota
Richie Diesterheft / Flickr
What are South Dakotans proud of? It's easier to answer with what we aren't proud of, as we have so many amazing things around us (a la Mount Rushmore, the home of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and record-breaking Crazy Horse).
4. We are hard working.
They are hard working. - People From South Dakota
Lars Plougmann / Flickr
South Dakotans are the hardest-working people on the planet. Need proof? Look at our jaw-dropping monuments, stellar restaurants, and unsurpassed agriculture scene.

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5. We are endlessly loyal.
They are endlessly loyal. - People From South Dakota
Jason Mrachina / Flickr
Loyal as the days are long, people from South Dakota will not let you down. Need a friend? We are there for you! Need a casserole? Consider it made! Need a helping hand? Here's two, just for you!
6. We are lovers of nature.
They are lovers of nature. - People From South Dakota
USFWS Mountain-Prairie / Flickr
Whether it's camping in the summer, hunting in the fall, skiing in winter, or gardening in the spring, people from South Dakota absolutely loving spending time in the great outdoors.
7. We are tough as nails.
They are tough as nails. - People From South Dakota
blucolt / Flickr
A romantic photoshoot in below-zero temperatures and snowing?! Only in South Dakota is this not a surprising site, as South Dakotans are tough as nails and don't let the weather stop them!
8. We know how to appreciate art.
They know how to appreciate art. - People From South Dakota
Terry Redlin Art Center / Facebook
The pictured Terry Redlin Art Center is just one of the many places that showcases South Dakota's true appreciation of art! For other locations, visit the famous South Dakota Art Museum, Historic Homestead Opera House, or National Music Museum.

There’s no doubt that South Dakotans are amazing people. This list of qualities makes those who call this state home even more endearing. What are your favorite qualities of South Dakotans?

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Best Things About People From South Dakota

Annie Sandmeier | May 17, 2019

Why is South Dakota important? Aside from housing some of the country's most iconic landmarks, South Dakota has a rich history that helped shape America as we know it today. From the earliest Native American residents to the Lewis and Clark Exploration all the way to the mining boom that brought thousands of families out west, there is no shortage of things that make South Dakota the important state we know and love. 

What are 5 interesting things about South Dakota?

  1. One of the first and most interesting facts about South Dakota is that we are one of only two states that do not celebrate Columbus Day, but rather Native American Day.
  2. SoDak is home to the second highest point east of the Rocky Mountains, which is that of Black Elk Peak (elevation 7,242 feet above sea level).
  3. Agriculture is our largest industry, with tourism coming in at a close second.
  4. South Dakota is not only nicknamed the Mount Rushmore State, but also the Sunshine State, Coyote State, and Land of Plenty.
  5. The Mitchell Corn Palace is the only corn palace on earth — and even if there was another, it would still be the best!

 

Who is the most famous person from South Dakota? Not only is there one famous person, but multiple famous people from South Dakota, including Laura Ingalls Wilder (whose childhood homestead you can still visit), legendary broadcaster Tom Brokaw, actress January Jones, "Price is Right" host Bob Barker, and "Entertainment Tonight" host Mary Hart. 

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