April 12, 2017:  From a press release on the South Dakota State News website, two South Dakota properties were recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, according to the South Dakota State Historical Society. The listed properties are the Dell Rapids Warming House and the Arlington Masonic Temple.

The National Register is the official federal list of properties identified as important in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering and culture. The State Historic Preservation Office of the State Historical Society works in conjunction with the National Park Service, which oversees the National Register program, to list the properties.

“South Dakota’s history is rich in American Indian culture, pioneer life and change,” said Jay D. Vogt, state historic preservation officer and director of the State Historical Society. “Properties listed on the National Register are important for their role in South Dakota’s culture, heritage and history. And when properties get listed, it shows that their owners take pride in their role in preserving that culture, heritage and history.”

Buildings, sites, structures and objects at least 50 years old possessing historical significance may qualify for the National Register, according to Vogt. Properties must also maintain their historic location, design, materials and association. Listing on the National Register does not place any limitations on private property owners by the federal government.

The Dell Rapids Warming House was built around 1930 using local rose-colored quartzite. It is located next to the river at the end of State Ave. The warming house is listed in the National Register as significant for its association with the historical themes of entertainment and recreation in the early 20th century. At the time, ice skating was a popular national pastime and an integral part of life in Dell Rapids during the winter months.

Read the full press release on the South Dakota State news website by clicking here.