Bon Homme County, South Dakota

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Bon Homme County is a county located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of South Dakota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 6,462. The county seat is Tyndall. The county was created in 1862 and organized in 1868.

History

Bon Homme County was one of the original counties of the Dakota Territory, created in 1862. The name "Bon Homme" is derived from the French term meaning "good man." The county has a rich history, including its role in the early settlement of the Dakota Territory and its development over the years.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 582 square miles (1,507 km²), of which 564 square miles (1,461 km²) is land and 18 square miles (47 km²) (3.1%) is water. The Missouri River forms the county's southern border.

Adjacent counties

• Hutchinson County (north)
• Yankton County (east)
• Knox County, Nebraska (south)
• Charles Mix County (west)
• Douglas County (northwest)

Major highways

• South Dakota Highway 25
• South Dakota Highway 37
• South Dakota Highway 46
• South Dakota Highway 50

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 6,462 people, 2,731 households, and 1,812 families residing in the county. The population density was 11.5 people per square mile (4.4/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with small percentages of other races.

Communities

Cities

• Avon
• Scotland
• Springfield
• Tyndall (county seat)

Towns

• Tabor

Unincorporated communities

• Kingsburg
• Santee

Education

Bon Homme County is served by several school districts, including the Bon Homme School District and the Avon School District. The county is also home to University of South Dakota–Springfield.

Economy

The economy of Bon Homme County is primarily based on agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the main products. The county also has a growing tourism sector, thanks to its historical sites and natural beauty.

Government and politics

Bon Homme County is governed by a board of commissioners. The county has historically leaned towards the Republican Party in national elections.

Notable people

• Joe Foss, a World War II flying ace and former governor of South Dakota, was born in Bon Homme County.

See also

• List of counties in South Dakota
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Bon Homme County, South Dakota