About Lead...

The century-old community of Lead was founded by miners and determined merchants who came to the Black Hills in search of their own rewards. They discovered a million-acre oasis teeming with wildlife, canyons and scenic hills. Deep within these hills they found gold.

In the spring of 1876, brothers Fred and Moses Manuel and two partners discovered the Homestake, quickly recognized as one of the most promising mines in the region. Soon, American mining magnate George Hearst bought out the Manuels and their partners for the sum of $105,000.

Over the years, gold production expanded and Lead began to grow. By the time South Dakota was granted statehood in 1889, Lead was the state's largest city, its neighborhoods serving as the new home of thousands of immigrants in search of prosperity. This diverse population worked side-by-side mining ore, cutting timber and establishing a business community that dominated the economy of western South Dakota.

As Homestake Mining Company grew, so did the cultural and recreational opportunities in Lead. The influence is still felt today. One hundred twenty-five years after the Manuel brothers discovered gold, the remarkable life of America's longest continuously operated gold mine came to an end, the victim of a declining world gold market and increased production costs. Today, Lead recalls its mining heritage through visitor tours, community celebrations and the Black Hills mining Museum dedicated to the town's rich and storied past.

Today's Lead's historic business district is witnessing changes that are restoring, rebuilding and revitalizing the community. New accommodations offer guests a variety of lodging alternatives and local landmarks are receiving facelifts.

Lead's future lies in its proximity to state and national monuments, memorials and parks, scenic hiking and biking trails, and the quality of life unmatched anywhere else in America.