HistoryA Little Piece of History on a South Dakota BluffThe Springfield area of South Dakota is a rich historical tapestry. From famous explorers to an infamous Calvary, from Native Americans to immigrant refugees, this area has little pieces of history sewn together with South Dakotan hospitality. Come for a visit and let history live again. Cogan House Lodge sits atop a bluff overlooking Lewis and Clark Lake of the Missouri River. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark along with more than 30 crew members traveled 8,000 The first school in Dakota territory was located near the Cogan House in what was called the village of Bon Homme. Supplied by riverboats and stagecoaches, Bon Homme grew to support farming and town life. One establishment that became popular was the Cogan House Hotel, run by Bridgette Cogan, where townsfolk and travelers could find food and hospitality. Her generosity to Native Americans was rewarded in gifts from Sitting Bull and others. Bridgette was the great, great aunt of Greg, owner of Cogan House. Near Cogan House is the Bon Homme Hutterite Colony. This was the first Hutterite Colony in the United States. Most Hutterite colonies in North America can trace their linage from this area, which was established in the mid-1800s. They originally bought 2500 acres of land which are still being farmed by descendents of the original colonists. The religion of the Hutterites is unique in their belief in the community of goods in which all material things are held in common. Today they make their living by farming, embracing modern farming practices, facilities and techniques. Rumors of gold in the Black Hills, confirmed by military expeditions led by George A. Custer in 1874, excited national interest. During one expedition, Custer and the 7th Calvary camped near the site of Cogan House Lodge. General Custer and several of his officers took their meals at the Cogan House Hotel. Due to the flooding stage of the Missouri River, the men had to stay in the area longer than expected. Six of Custer’s men died during that time. Their graves are marked as 7th Calvary and are located near the Cogan House. Ask us and we’ll give you directions to that little corner of history. |
miles over two years to map the Missouri. The famous expedition passed through this area in September of 1804, camping a mere quarter mile from the site of the Cogan House Lodge. The area is described in detail in their ledgers. Today you can visit the historical marker near the trail or explore Lewis and Clark Recreation Area near Yankton—one of the state park system's most popular resort parks.