Yankton College

Yankton College is a former liberal arts college in Yankton, South Dakota, whose campus includes multiple buildings designed by architect George Grant Elmslie between 1927 and 1932. The complex shows characteristic architectural elements that combine Prairie School style with modern functional requirements.

The college opened in 1881 as the first institution of higher learning in Dakota Territory and closed in December 1984 after more than a century of academic activity. The institution shaped the early educational landscape of the region and remained active until closure.

The institution produced nine Rhodes Scholars and set a benchmark for academic achievement across the upper Midwest region. This success reflected the college's reputation as a place where intellectual development came first.

The former campus now operates as Federal Prison Camp Yankton, while Crane-Youngworth Field continues to serve local educational institutions for athletic events. Visiting is possible only to a limited extent since most buildings remain closed to the public.

The college's football team, the Greyhounds, began their program in 1894 and competed in several regional conferences. The team played its games on the still-existing Crane-Youngworth Field, which continues to serve as an athletic facility today.

Location: South Dakota

Inception: 1881

GPS coordinates: 42.88028,-97.38944

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30