Hot Springs
Photo courtesy of South Dakota State Historical Society

 
     Hot Springs was first called Minnekahta. Ranchers and farmers started the town in 1879. Some businessmen thought the town would be a great resort, or spa. It was a place for people to get away and rest. The country was beautiful, and natural mineral springs were perfect for a spa. Many buildings in Hot Springs were built of sandstone. The sandstone was a local rock, and there was a large amount available. Fred Evans built three of the largest sandstone structures. The biggest one in this picture is the Evans Hotel. It is still standing today.

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