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When traveling across South Dakota on Interstate 90, just west of Murdo, a small town suddenly bursts into view from the highway. Many towns dot the landscape of the main road that spans South Dakota, so what makes this one so unique? Welcome to 1880 Town, an authentic 1880 to 1920 era town of buildings and artifacts.
In 1969, Richard Hullinger bought 14 acres of land at Exit 170 and had no plans of building an attraction but it was around this time that a movie company arrived in a nearby town to film an 1880 era movie. A set was constructed from old buildings, with many Indian relics and antiques being borrowed from Clarence Hullinger, Richard’s father. Filming was eventually abandoned when winter set in and the collection of buildings was given to Clarence for the use of his artifacts. The movie set was then moved to the land that Richard had purchased and the 1880 Town was established.
My South Dakota travel plans originally included a stop at 1880 Town, but I decided against it as I had already made too many roadside stops on my journey from Minneapolis to Rapid City. The weather couldn’t decide between sun and clouds that day, but had finally settled into a ominous, stormy sky when I raced over a slight South Dakota hill. That’s when 1880 Town lay sprawled before me and, in that moment, my plans changed. There was no way I could pass up photos of an old Western town with such a perfect stormy sky! I quickly exited Interstate 90, paid the admission, and was soon transported to the Old West. Here’s a quick photographic tour of 1880 Town for you to enjoy!
Big Foot Pass Presbyterian Church
Jewelry Store (1892) & Feed and Seed
Oahe Mission Post Office – 1881
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Yes, my husband and I did enjoy this post. Will put this place on our bucket list.
thanks for posting the pictures.
This is a great place to run the kids when driving across S.D. It was one of my favorite places as a kid. Do they still do costume rental? Great fun and cheap souvenirs.
I loved my visit to this historic town! The people we’re so nice and happy to tell stories! Thank you soo much! Even made me deputy for the day as I was so excited to see the old train!! Great visit and hope to come for another visit soon!! Thank you all for marking our visit one I will never forget!!!
I’m so glad you had a great experience there! It really is a gem in the middle of nowhere.
I am so excited about planning our visit. Mostly to see that my gg grandparents hotel is still standing and my family can see a piece of our family history. We had no idea that it was still standing, now that we know, we must come and visit.
Never have I been so excited for my next trip to SD! These are beautiful photos!
Quelcy recently posted..From A Maine Inspired Meal: Blueberry Schlumpf
Have you ever been to 1880 Town before, Quelcy?!
Fantastic! Love all of it.
Thank you, Beth! 🙂
Love this place of course!
I can’t imagine why, Amy!
Amy- how are you? It has been far too long!
Kathy Larson LaDue
By the way, 1880 Town still Rocks!
These pictures are a great example of this wonderful place!!!