South Dakota spending, because of the proximity of many tourist attractions in the Black Hills and Ellsworth Air Force Base. The next eight largest cities in the state, in order of descending 2010 population, are Aberdeen (26,091), Brookings (22,056), Watertown (21,482), Mitchell (15,254), Yankton (14,454), Pierre (13,646), Huron (12,592), and Vermillion (10,571). Pierre is the state capital, and Brookings and Vermillion are the locations of the state's two largest universities (South Dakota State University and University of South Dakota, respectively). With a population of about 14,000, Pierre is the second smallest state capital in the United States. Of the ten largest cities
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