Allen, South Dakota is located in the heart of the Great Plains region of the United States. The city is situated in the northern part of the state and is bordered by several other cities including Sioux Falls, Watertown, and Aberdeen. Allen lies at an elevation of 1,862 feet above sea level and has a total area of 0.4 square miles. Check proexchangerates for information about Aurora County, South Dakota.
Allen’s climate is classified as a humid continental climate with cool to warm summers and cold winters. Average high temperatures during the summer months range from 70°F to 85°F while average low temperatures during winter months range from -5°F to 10°F. Precipitation amounts in Allen are fairly low with an average annual precipitation rate of just 21 inches per year.
The land surrounding Allen is mostly flat with some rolling hills in places. The topography consists mostly of grassland prairies with some areas having more trees than others due to past logging activity or natural re-growth processes. Wildlife species commonly spotted in Allen include white-tailed deer, coyotes, raccoons, foxes, skunks, opossums, badgers, rabbits and squirrels among others.
The geography of Allen has played an important role in its development over time as it has served as an ideal location for agricultural activities due to its fertile soils and plentiful water resources from nearby rivers and lakes. The city also benefits from being located near major highways that connect it to other cities within South Dakota as well as neighboring states like Minnesota and Iowa which makes it easy for both locals and visitors alike to access Allen’s many attractions such as its historic downtown district or its various outdoor recreational opportunities like fishing or hunting on nearby public lands.
History of Allen, South Dakota
Allen, South Dakota has a long and storied history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The area was first settled by homesteaders in the 1850s who were attracted to the region due to its fertile soil and plentiful resources. As more people began to move into the area, a small settlement known as “The Forks” was established in 1867 near where the Big Sioux River and Little Sioux River meet.
In 1873, The Forks was incorporated as a town and renamed “Allen” after William Allen, one of its earliest settlers. During this time, Allen experienced significant growth due to its ideal location on the banks of two major rivers which allowed for transportation of goods via steamboat and later by railroads that ran through town.
By 1880 Allen had grown to become one of South Dakota’s leading agricultural centers with a population of over 800 people. This growth was further bolstered by the opening of a nearby flour mill in 1888 which increased economic activity in town even further.
In the early 1900s, Allen saw an influx of new businesses such as banks, hotels and restaurants that catered towards both locals and travelers passing through town. The city also became home to several churches during this time including St John’s Lutheran Church which is still active today.
In recent decades Allen has continued to grow while retaining much of its historic charm and character. Today it is home to around 1,500 residents who enjoy all that the city has to offer including its many parks and outdoor recreation opportunities along with its vibrant downtown district featuring several unique restaurants and shops.
Economy of Allen, South Dakota
Allen, South Dakota is a small town with a vibrant economy that has been steadily growing in recent years. The city is home to nearly 1,500 residents who are employed in a variety of industries including agriculture, manufacturing, retail and tourism.
Agriculture is a major component of the local economy with several farms located in and around Allen that produce corn, soybeans, wheat and other crops. The city is also home to several animal-based operations such as dairy farms, feedlots and hog farms.
Manufacturing is another important industry in Allen with several local businesses specializing in the production of wood furniture, metal products and other goods. This sector provides employment for many locals as well as contributing to the city’s overall economic health.
Retail is also an important part of Allen’s economy with several stores located throughout the city that offer everything from groceries to clothing to hardware supplies. Additionally, there are many restaurants located throughout town which provide further employment opportunities for locals while also drawing visitors from nearby communities such as Minnesota and Iowa.
Finally, tourism has become increasingly important in recent years with many visitors coming to Allen each year to experience its historic downtown district or take advantage of its various outdoor recreational opportunities like fishing or hunting on nearby public lands. This influx of visitors has helped boost the local economy significantly while also helping to preserve much of Allen’s historic charm and character.
Politics in Allen, South Dakota
The politics of Allen, South Dakota are largely influenced by the city’s small population and limited resources. The city is governed by a mayor and five-member city council who work together to set the city’s priorities and pass local ordinances.
The mayor is elected by popular vote every four years while the five members of the City Council are elected at large with two-year terms. The City Council meets monthly to discuss issues affecting the city and to pass legislation governing topics such as tax rates and development laws.
Allen is also home to a variety of civic organizations that help shape local politics, including the Allen Chamber of Commerce, which works to promote economic development in the area; the Allen Historical Society, which works to preserve the town’s history; and various environmental groups that advocate for conservation efforts in and around Allen.
At a state level, Allen is part of South Dakota’s District 28 which includes parts of Roberts County as well as parts of Grant County. This district elects representatives for both houses of the state legislature with elections held every two years.
On a national level, Allen is part of South Dakota’s At Large Congressional District which sends one representative to Congress every two years. In recent years this district has been represented by Republican Dusty Johnson who was first elected in 2016.
In sum, local politics in Allen are largely focused on addressing issues that affect its small population while also advocating for its interests at both state and national levels.