South Dakota State Historical Society South Dakota State Historical Society The South Dakota State Historical Society is South Dakota's official state historical society and is located in Pierre, South Dakota at 900 Governors Drive. It is a part of the Department of Education The South Dakota State Historical Society was founded in 1862 as the Old Settlers Association of Dakota Territory. In 1901, the South Dakota Legislature established the Association as the official state historical society. In 1975, the State Archives were incorporated into the Society, which continues to operate them and also functions as a public library. In 1989 the Culture Heritage Center was
Hail, South Dakota! Dakota we welcome you.<br> <br> Hail! South Dakota! the state we love the best,<br> Land of our fathers, builders of the west;<br> Home of the Badlands, and Rushmore's ageless shrine,<br> Black Hills and prairies, farmland and sunshine.<br> Hills, farms and prairies, blessed with bright sunshine.<br> 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