South Dakota: Jog in the Boundary
Are you ready for an exciting adventure? Let’s take a trip to South Dakota and explore the fascinating story of Rollin J. Reeves, a man who made a mistake that changed the shape of the state forever! South Dakota is a state located in the western part of the United States. It’s known for many things, such as Mount Rushmore, where four United States presidents’ faces are carved in granite, and The Black Hills, a beautiful range of mountains. But did you know that South Dakota is also home to an interesting story about a surveying mistake?
Over a hundred years ago, in June 1877, Rollin J. Reeves, along with his survey party and troops from the Third Cavalry, began surveying the western boundary of what is now South Dakota. They were to follow the 104th meridian north. Reeves and his men made excellent progress until after the middle of July when they received news of attacks by Sioux in the area.
The surveyors retreated about twenty-five miles to Spearfish until more troops could be assigned. When they returned to their camp at Belle Fourche, Reeves discovered his wagons had been ransacked and some of his records and equipment stolen. The party continued north over the rolling hills and finished the surveying on August 1, 1877.
However, it wasn't until 1885 when Daniel C. Major continued the survey line north from where Reeves finished that he discovered Reeves’ marker was seven-eighths of a mile too far west. The mistake was never corrected, and even today, the jog on the western border of South Dakota can be found on any map.
Now, you might be wondering, what’s so special about this mistake? Well, it’s interesting because it shows us that even though we can make mistakes, sometimes they turn out okay. Today, the country surrounding the jog in South Dakota’s boundary is fenced grazing land. Grass, sagebrush, and cactus cover the prairie. No one really cares that Rollin Reeves, and his survey party were seven-eighths of a mile west of the 104th meridian. The cattle and sheep that graze on the land around his mistake don’t mind. The antelope, skunks, weasels, coyotes, and mink that roam on the land don't care. And the rattlesnakes, prairie dogs, and sage hens don’t know the difference.
So, even though Reeves made a mistake, it didn’t have a big impact on the land or the animals that call it home. It’s a reminder that sometimes, things work out in the end, and mistakes can turn into happy accidents. I hope you enjoyed our trip to South Dakota and learning about the story of Rollin J. Reeves. Remember, even if you make a mistake, it’s okay because sometimes, it can turn into something wonderful!
