With a population of 782, Armour has an active community and memories preserved through many historic sights. Located in Douglas County, Armour is south of Interstate 90 on Highway 281.
History
Armour was founded in 1885. The city was named for Philip D. Armour, who was founder of Armour and Company, a meat packing company. Contrary to popular belief, Armour was never home to a meat packing plant; the town was so named because Mr. Armour was also the chairman of the railroad that went through Armour and donated a bell to the local congregational church. The athletic teams of Armour High School were formerly known as the “Packers” in reference to the well known packing company, although today the high school plays its sports jointly with Tripp-Delmont High School as the “Tripp-Delmont/Armour Nighthawks.”
Recreation/Community Activities
A three-block stretch of Armour’s Main Street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The homes in the historic district represent a wide range of architectural styles and tell the story of Armour’s beginnings in the late 1800s through the early part of the 20th century.
Located along U.S. Highway 281, Armour’s Lions Park features many amenities perfect for a weekend getaway or family reunion. The park has two picnic shelters, 10 camping pads and a bathhouse. There’s also plenty of green space, a sand volleyball court and playground facilities. Adjacent to Armour’s Lions Park, Lake Alcazar is being restored as the local swimming hole and fishing pond that many old timers remember. Recent additions include a walking path and bathroom facilities.
The Lorain re-opened in October 1999 after a 15-year hiatus. The Armour Star Hams had maintained the theater and used it for community theater productions since it was last open as a movie theater. The Lorain is now run by a staff of community volunteers. Each weekend, at least 20 volunteers work the four shows Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The Douglas County Museum and Country School are under the care and management of the Douglas County Historical Society and are open to the public at no charge. The maintenance and operation of the facilities are funded by Douglas County and private donations. Open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays Memorial Day through Labor Day from 1 to 4 p.m. or by appointment, year around. Located along Highway 281 on the Douglas County Courthouse Grounds. Call 724-2129 or 724-2795 or 724-2423.
Contact Information
- City Hall, 620 Main Ave, Armour, SD 57313
- susanh@unitelsd.com
- www.armoursd.com
