The idea of naming South Dakota’s state dessert began in Eureka. When a bill appeared suggesting Kucken as South Dakota’s state dessert at the House State Affairs Committee, a large group of Eurekans again were present to testify on behalf of the bill, present a skit, and hand out kuchen samples. It passed that committee 11-1, however it was defeated on the House floor 41-26. The next year, kuchen did not fall by the wayside. As more people became familiar with kuchen, support for the state dessert grew. Many people across the state were surprised to learn that kuchen was not already the state dessert. Letters were sent to every town in the state asking if they wished to support the bill naming kuchen as the state dessert. Seventeen towns in addition to Eureka gave written support for the bill. When HB 1229 was introduced in the House State Affairs Committee on February 7, 2000, only a handful of supporters were present, but they carried the written support of towns from across the state. The amount of kuchen samples was minimal. The bill passed 8-5. When the bill was on the House floor two days later for debate and a vote, members from South Dakota Economic Development Group (comprised of Eureka and Mobridge) and community leaders were introduced in the gallery. It passed 39-24.
History
With Eureka’s location at the end of the railroad, some historically saw Eureka become the largest primary wheat market in the world. Between 1887 and 1906 the wheat industry boomed in the city. In 1897, 43% of the world’s wheat was shipped from Eureka.
Recreation / Community Events
The fourth Saturday in June is the Eureka Gold Classic Triathalon with swimming, running and biking in the area. Retailers Appreciation Day is the third Sunday in August. The city hosts a free picnic in the park and outdoor entertainment.
Firemen’s Annual Pheasant Hunters’ Steak Fry is held the opening day of pheasant season, and the Eureka Pioneer Museum begins a Christmas celebration mid-October for those getting a head-start on their holiday festivities. The Eureka Pioneer Museum is located along J. Avenue in Eureka and is open April 15 through November 1ston Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays with hours 9:00-noon and 1:00-5:00, and on Saturdays and Sundays 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. No admission fees, but donations are welcome. The museum is operated by memorials and donations.
German Schmeckfest is held the third weekend in September with pioneer demonstrations, songfest and a German meal. The focus is on German Heritage.
Contact Information
- Eureka Community Development Company, Inc., P.O. Box 134, Eureka, SD 57437
- Phone: 605-284-2130 or 800-EUREKA-7 (800-387-3527)
- Fax: 605-284-5329
- Email: ecdc@valleytel.net
- Website: eurekasd.com
Source: City of Eureka
