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Loading Glossary… Marlo Kapsa May 14 2025 at 11:14AM on page 1
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Swap the location of the Purpose and Background sections. I also think it is important to include the Indigenous history of this area in the background section at the beginning of the document. Currently, there's Indigenous history included in the Parks & Rec chapter but that feels like an afterthought and we may receive criticism for that. If there's another plan for this I'm open to discussing but again - I think it's important to recognize this part of our history at the beginning of the document. See the History section of the Spearfish Comprehensive Plan below which was reviewed/revised through Tribal consultation.
SPEARFISH HISTORY
Spearfish, South Dakota, is a thriving city located in the western part of the state, within
Lawrence County in the picturesque Black Hills. As of the 2022 ACS census, Spearfish has a
population of 12,268 and is situated 42 miles northwest of Rapid City, a regional hub with a
population of just over 76,000 people.
The Black Hills have been inhabited by Indigenous Nations for thousands of years, with evidence
of human habitation dating back as early as 10,000 years ago. Tribes such as the Arikara,
Cheyenne, Crow, Kiowa, and Pawnee have had varying degrees of presence and influence in
the area. In the 18th century, the Lakota Nation, part of the larger Oceti Sakowin (or Seven
Council Fires), migrated to the region. The Lakota people consider the Black Hills sacred, naming
it Paha Sapa, meaning “hills that are black.” The 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie recognized the
Black Hills as part of the Great Sioux Reservation, belonging to the Oceti Sakowin and Arapaho
tribes. However, following the confirmation of gold in the Black Hills by the 1874 Black Hills
Expedition, settlers and gold prospectors moved into the area, igniting a gold rush. Mining camps
and settlements quickly emerged, including one near the Spearfish River, which became officially
known as Spearfish in 1876. The town grew rapidly, becoming a hub for settlers and commerce,
driven by the economic opportunities that emerged with expansion. Over time, the Sioux Nations
were displaced from the land, and many continue to advocate for the return of the Black Hills,
emphasizing the lasting significance of this region to their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Over time, Spearfish evolved into a vibrant and resilient community. The town’s early economy
was shaped by industries such as agriculture, logging, sawmills, and mining. Some of these
industries, like the sawmill now operated by Neiman Enterprises, continue to play a vital role in
the local economy. The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and Archives, established to
support fish conservation, remains an important educational and tourist attraction.
Cultural and educational assets have also been central to Spearfish’s identity. Black Hills State
University, founded in 1883, serves as a hub for innovation in science, education, and business,
enriching the community’s intellectual and cultural life. The Matthews Opera House further adds
to the town’s vibrant arts scene, hosting a variety of events and performances that draw both
residents and visitors.
Tourism has long been a cornerstone of Spearfish’s economy. The Black Hills Passion Play, which
operated from 1939 to 2008, attracted tens of thousands of visitors each summer and helped put
Spearfish on the map as a cultural destination. Today, the city continues to welcome visitors from
around the world who are drawn to its stunning landscapes, outdoor recreation opportunities,
and welcoming community.
Spearfish has experienced steady growth since the 1990s, with an average annual growth rate of
1.6% over the past 20 years. As the city looks to the future, it remains committed to preserving
its rich heritage while embracing opportunities for sustainable development and innovation. With
a strong sense of community, a robust economy, and a commitment to education and the arts,
Spearfish is well-positioned to continue thriving for generations to come.
SPEARFISH HISTORY
Spearfish, South Dakota, is a thriving city located in the western part of the state, within
Lawrence County in the picturesque Black Hills. As of the 2022 ACS census, Spearfish has a
population of 12,268 and is situated 42 miles northwest of Rapid City, a regional hub with a
population of just over 76,000 people.
The Black Hills have been inhabited by Indigenous Nations for thousands of years, with evidence
of human habitation dating back as early as 10,000 years ago. Tribes such as the Arikara,
Cheyenne, Crow, Kiowa, and Pawnee have had varying degrees of presence and influence in
the area. In the 18th century, the Lakota Nation, part of the larger Oceti Sakowin (or Seven
Council Fires), migrated to the region. The Lakota people consider the Black Hills sacred, naming
it Paha Sapa, meaning “hills that are black.” The 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie recognized the
Black Hills as part of the Great Sioux Reservation, belonging to the Oceti Sakowin and Arapaho
tribes. However, following the confirmation of gold in the Black Hills by the 1874 Black Hills
Expedition, settlers and gold prospectors moved into the area, igniting a gold rush. Mining camps
and settlements quickly emerged, including one near the Spearfish River, which became officially
known as Spearfish in 1876. The town grew rapidly, becoming a hub for settlers and commerce,
driven by the economic opportunities that emerged with expansion. Over time, the Sioux Nations
were displaced from the land, and many continue to advocate for the return of the Black Hills,
emphasizing the lasting significance of this region to their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Over time, Spearfish evolved into a vibrant and resilient community. The town’s early economy
was shaped by industries such as agriculture, logging, sawmills, and mining. Some of these
industries, like the sawmill now operated by Neiman Enterprises, continue to play a vital role in
the local economy. The D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and Archives, established to
support fish conservation, remains an important educational and tourist attraction.
Cultural and educational assets have also been central to Spearfish’s identity. Black Hills State
University, founded in 1883, serves as a hub for innovation in science, education, and business,
enriching the community’s intellectual and cultural life. The Matthews Opera House further adds
to the town’s vibrant arts scene, hosting a variety of events and performances that draw both
residents and visitors.
Tourism has long been a cornerstone of Spearfish’s economy. The Black Hills Passion Play, which
operated from 1939 to 2008, attracted tens of thousands of visitors each summer and helped put
Spearfish on the map as a cultural destination. Today, the city continues to welcome visitors from
around the world who are drawn to its stunning landscapes, outdoor recreation opportunities,
and welcoming community.
Spearfish has experienced steady growth since the 1990s, with an average annual growth rate of
1.6% over the past 20 years. As the city looks to the future, it remains committed to preserving
its rich heritage while embracing opportunities for sustainable development and innovation. With
a strong sense of community, a robust economy, and a commitment to education and the arts,
Spearfish is well-positioned to continue thriving for generations to come.
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