Miner County

Miner County is an administrative division in the Glacial Lakes region of South Dakota with rolling terrain, scattered lakes, and farmland. The county courthouse in Howard serves as its administrative center.

The county was established in 1873 and named after Ephriam and Nelson Miner, both territorial legislators. Settlement grew as westward expansion and agricultural development reached the region.

The population carries roots from Norwegian, German, Danish, Welsh, Irish, and Swedish immigrants whose traditions remain visible in local farming practices and community life today.

Administrative services are available at the county courthouse in Howard during business days. The area is best explored by car, as roads wind through lakes and farmland.

A notable moment in weather research happened here in 1884 when an early tornado photograph was captured. This documented image helped advance scientific understanding of these natural phenomena.

Location: South Dakota

Inception: 1873

Capital city: Howard

Shares border with: Kingsbury County, Lake County, McCook County, Sanborn County, Hanson County

Website: https://minercountysd.org

GPS coordinates: 44.02000,-97.61000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:20