Tea is known as the home of Pole Vault Olympian Derek Miles. It’s a booming community that is located fifteen miles southeast from Sioux Falls and rests between Interstate 29 and Highway 17.
History
Originally Tea was called Byron – until they realized it was a common name and were advised to brainstorm for something new. The village of Byron was begun after the survey of the railroad line from Yankton to Sioux Falls was completed. The community then decided it needed a post office, so with their application the postal authorities advised the town several other communities were also named Byron. They requested the community select ten short names from which one would be chosen. At a meeting around the pot-bellied stove in Heerens and Peter’s General Store, townspeople came up with nine names, but could not think of the 10th. Since this was a German based community, the tradition of afternoon tea was a necessity. When someone suggested that they break for tea, the idea to put Tea on the list was agreed upon. The postal authorities advised the town with their final selection of “Tea.” The town was plotted in 1900 and incorporated in 1906.
Recreation / Community Events
The community of Tea has celebrated Teapot Days in June to honor its heritage and spirit, and in the colder months the fun continues with a Winter Festival.
For a cultural activity, visit the Law Center located at 720 East Kevin Drive in Tea. Nearby is also the Wild Water West Water Park at 26767 466th Avenue in Sioux Falls.
Contact Information
- Tea City Hall, 600 E 1st. St., PO Box 128, Tea, SD 57064
- Phone: 605-498-5191
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: teasd.com
Source: City of Tea
