Roberts County

Roberts County is a county in northeastern South Dakota covering rolling agricultural land with gentle hills throughout. The region borders Minnesota to the east and North Dakota to the north, shaped by farmland and scattered settlements.

The county was established in 1883 during the early settlement period of the northern plains region. Its name traces back to a figure from that era, though historical records remain unclear about whether it honors S.G. Roberts from Fargo or a French fur trader named Solomon Robar.

The Lake Traverse Indian Reservation shapes daily life throughout the county, where the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate maintain their traditions and customs actively. Visitors can experience this living cultural presence in community gatherings and local celebrations.

Interstate 29, U.S. Route 12, and South Dakota Highways 10 and 15 connect the main areas of the county for easy travel. These roads provide reliable access whether you are passing through or exploring different parts of the region.

The courthouse in Sisseton, completed in 1903, contains a restored rotunda with original color schemes and decorative designs from the early 1900s. This building stands as a notable example of period architecture still visible to visitors today.

Location: South Dakota

Inception: 1883

Capital city: Sisseton

Shares border with: Richland County, Grant County, Day County, Marshall County, Sargent County, Traverse County, Big Stone County

Website: http://roberts.sdcounties.org

GPS coordinates: 45.62000,-96.95000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:57