The Gaslight Era - South Dakota Historical Markers on Waymarking.com

In 1881, in order to make the streets of Sioux Falls look more metropolitan, large kerosene lanterns were attached to the tops of wooden posts at several intersections. This first street lighting was primitive and short lived.

In 1882 a coal gasification plant was started at this spot and pipes were laid under streets & alleys. By 1883 the plant was supplying gas for the city street lights and home lighting & cooking.

Controversy followed over who would run the plant and who could supply the power cheaper. Explosions occurred often because of the volatile nature of the gas with the plant being rebuilt a few times.

The Sioux Falls Gas Light Co. (as it was now called) eventually brought natural gas to the town. The plant remained as a backup just in case.

In the end, all that was left was residue in the soil that was completely decontaminated and removed in 1998.

Marker Name: The Gaslight Era Marker Type: City Marker Text: Not listed

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