Pierre, South Dakota Pierre, South Dakota Pierre (; Lakota: "čhúŋkaške", "fort") is the state capital of the U.S. state of South Dakota, and the county seat of Hughes County. The population was 13,646 at the 2010 census, making it the second-least populous state capital in the United States after Montpelier, Vermont, and the eighth-most populous city in South Dakota. Founded in 1880 on the east bank of the Missouri River opposite Fort Pierre, Pierre has been the state capital since South Dakota gained statehood on November 2, 1889. It was challenged by Huron for the capital and won because of its location in
Hail, South Dakota! Hail, South Dakota! "Hail! South Dakota!" (1943) is the official state song of South Dakota, selected by popular vote. It was written and composed by DeeCort Hammitt (1893-1970). Hail! South Dakota! a great state of the land;<br> Health, wealth and beauty, that's what makes her grand;<br> She has her Black Hills, and mines with gold so rare,<br> And with her scenery, no other state can compare.<br> <br> Come where the sun shines, and where life's worth your while;<br> You won't be here long, till you'll wear a smile;<br> No state's so healthy, and no folk quite so true.<br> To South