Brule County, South Dakota

Brule County is a county located in the state of South Dakota, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 5,255. The county seat is Chamberlain. The county was created in 1875 and organized in 1879. It is named after the Brulé subtribe of the Sioux people.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 846 square miles (2,190 km²), of which 817 square miles (2,120 km²) is land and 29 square miles (75 km²) (3.4%) is water. The Missouri River forms the county's western boundary.

Adjacent counties

• Buffalo County (north)
• Jerauld County (northeast)
• Aurora County (east)
• Charles Mix County (south)
• Lyman County (west)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 5,255 people, 2,200 households, and 1,400 families residing in the county. The population density was 6.4 inhabitants per square mile (2.5/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 85.6% White, 11.2% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 2.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.5% of the population.

Communities

Cities

• Chamberlain (county seat)
• Kimball

Towns

• Pukwana

Unincorporated communities

• Bijou Hills

Government and infrastructure

Brule County is governed by a board of commissioners. The county courthouse is located in Chamberlain. The county is part of the At-Large Congressional District.

Education

The county is served by several school districts, including the Chamberlain School District and Kimball School District. Higher education opportunities are available at nearby institutions such as Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell.

Transportation

Major highways in Brule County include:

• Interstate 90
• South Dakota Highway 45
• South Dakota Highway 50

Economy

The economy of Brule County is primarily based on agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and wheat being the main crops. Livestock farming, particularly cattle and hogs, also plays a significant role. Tourism is another important sector, with attractions such as the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.

See also

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