1880 TOWN (Midland, SD)

I’m a sucker for old-time attractions! I enjoy seeing what life was like more than 100 years ago – it makes me thankful for the conveniences we have today. 😊 If you recall, in Fargo, ND we visited Bonanzaville, a historic village and museum. Today we’re visiting 1880 TOWN in Midland, SD, where you can dress up like they did in 1880, explore memorabilia, check out live events, and even learn about gemstones! There is something for everyone. Come along as I share all about 1880 TOWN!

History of 1880 TOWN

In 1969, Richard Hullinger bought 14 acres at Exit 170 in South Dakota. In 1972 a gas station was built at this location along with the idea of an old west attraction. Later, Richard purchased an additional 80 acres.

About that time a movie company came to a small town nearby to film an 1880 era movie. A main street set was constructed from old buildings, and a number of Native American relics and antiques were borrowed from Richard’s father. When winter set in and filming was abandoned, the movie company gave the main street set to Richard’s father for the use of his artifacts. The movie set was moved to the 80 acres, and the 1880 TOWN was born!

With the beginning of the 1880 TOWN, also began years of collecting what is now an authentic 1880 to 1920 era town. Richard and his father chose buildings that were not only interesting to look at but also historically correct for an early South Dakota town. The displays and buildings range from the 1970’s to the 14-sided barn built in 1919.

The tour of the town begins with the 14-sided barn. In the barn you will see fine antique buggies, toys, stalls with horses in them and a working, turn of the century saloon piano from Deadwood. So neat!

From the barn, the whole town lies before you in a beautiful panoramic view!

• The first building on the north side is the Vanishing Prairie Museum. The museum was built to house the more valuable collections, many from the General Custer period, such as a pair of boots and an old army saddlebag from the Custer battlefield, a complete authentic cowboy outfit, photographs, and selected interiors of fine Dakota homes.
• Built in 1910, the Dakota Hotel still carries the scars made by the cowboys’ spurs on the staircase.
• The Gardel & Walker Livery Barn holds a variety of early engines and two wagons from this era, and on an open lot next to the livery is an antique machinery display.
• The St. Stephan’s Church was built in 1915 and has everything intact, from the stained-glass windows to the bell. Go ahead and ring that bell (along with the school and fire bell)!
• The C&N Depot, Express Agency, and Telegraph Office are filled with railroad equipment.
• The town hall was renovated in 1984, and you can step inside the back door to see the mayor’s office. The film “Love for the Land” can be seen throughout the day in the town hall. Next door is the lumber yard and pioneer home.
• Walk into the one-room schoolhouse to see the ink-well desks, textbooks, reciting bench, roll-up maps, and the view of the beautiful prairie. Up front by the blackboard sits the huge stove that would never heat the back of the room.
• About a quarter of a mile east of the town is a homestead complete with windmill, corrals, barn, house, and outhouse.

50s Diner

Enjoy daily lunch specials, hard ice cream, and root beer floats while checking out the 1850’s memorabilia on this 1950’s Santa Fe Train. It originally ran from Chicago to California before coming to rest at the 1880 TOWN in 1982.

Dances with Wolves Movie

Check out some of the props from the movie, Dances with Wolves! The movie was primarily filmed in the western part of South Dakota, near the Black Hills. Among the many props from the movie set are a sod house and tent, and Timmons Freight wagons. These props give visitors a glimpse into the look and feel of the Lakota Sioux encampment that was portrayed in the film.

Additional Things to See:

Do not miss the unique 1800 TOWN! Walk through the many buildings and explore the rare artifacts. You will definitely enjoy your visit!

Tips for Visiting 1800 TOWN

• 🕗 Hours: Open 8 AM – 5 PM Daily (May 1^st through October 31^st)
• 🧭 Location: 24280 SD Hwy 63 I90, Exit 170, Midland, SD 57552
• 🚗 Parking: Parking is available for free
• 💰 Cost: See the different rates on the 1800 TOWN website
• 💡 Pro Tip: Allow plenty of time and bring your walking shoes. There is a lot to see!