National Register of Historic Places listings in Aurora County, South Dakota facts for kids

Location of Aurora County in South Dakota

Have you ever wondered which buildings and places in your area are super old and important? In Aurora County, South Dakota, there's a special list of places that are part of the National Register of Historic Places. This list helps protect buildings, sites, and objects that are important to the history of the United States.

When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized for its historical, architectural, or archaeological importance. It's like a hall of fame for old buildings! In Aurora County, there are 9 places currently on this list. One place was on the list before but has since been removed. This article will tell you a bit about these cool historic spots.

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places worth saving. It's run by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. government. When a place is added to this list, it helps people understand its history and encourages them to protect it for future generations. It's a way to celebrate and remember the past!

Historic Places in Aurora County

Aurora County has several interesting places that have been added to the National Register. These include old courthouses, homes, schools, and even a church. Each one tells a unique story about the county's past.

Important Buildings in Plankinton

The city of Plankinton is home to a few historic spots.

• Aurora County Courthouse: This important building, located on Main Street, was added to the list in 1993. Courthouses are often central to a county's history, where many important decisions and events took place.
• Raesly House: This historic house, found at 2nd and East Road, was recognized in 2004. Old homes often show us how people lived and what kind of architecture was popular a long time ago.
• Sweep Hotel: The Sweep Hotel on South Main was added to the list in 2005. Hotels were once very important places for travelers and often served as community hubs.

Historic Sites in White Lake

White Lake also has several places on the National Register.

• Hilton House: Located on Main Street, the Hilton House was added to the list in 2000.
• Hofmeister House: This house at 209 East 1st Street was recognized in 2007.
• Patten Consolidated School: This old school building, located at 37196 241st Street, was added in 2008. Schools are often important community landmarks and show how education has changed over time.
• Underwood United Methodist Church: This church, found at 24183 373rd Avenue, was also added in 2008. Churches are often central to a community's social and spiritual life.

Historic Homes in Stickney

In Stickney, two houses have made the list.

• Lincoln House: This home at 324 South Main was added in 2002.
• William P. Smith House: Located at 306 North 3rd Avenue, this house was recognized in 2004.

Current listings

Former listing

Sometimes, a place might be removed from the National Register. This can happen if the building is changed too much, or if it's no longer there.

• South Dakota Department of Transportation Bridge No. 02-007-220: This bridge, located near White Lake, was on the list from 1999 to 2008. It was removed because it was replaced in 2004.