McPherson County

McPherson County is an administrative division in northern South Dakota with rolling hills and agricultural land spread across its area. The county includes several townships and unincorporated territories with a small population base.

The county was established in 1873 and named after Civil War General James B. McPherson, with its administrative structure fully organized by 1884. Settlement followed the westward expansion patterns of that era.

German heritage shapes how people live and celebrate here, visible in family names, local traditions, and the way holidays are observed across the county. This connection to ancestral roots remains part of everyday community life.

Leola serves as the county seat and houses the main government buildings and services for the region. Plan ahead when visiting since the area has a small population and limited services.

Near Leola lies a large nature preserve with native grassland and a wild bison herd living on the land. This reserve offers visitors a rare look at how the Great Plains landscape once appeared.

Location: South Dakota

Inception: 1873

Capital city: Leola

Shares border with: McIntosh County, Dickey County, Brown County, Edmunds County, Campbell County, Walworth County

Website: http://mcpherson.sdcounties.org

GPS coordinates: 45.77000,-99.22000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:49