Pringle, South Dakota – Trail Town of the Southern Hills
Nestled in the heart of Custer County, South Dakota, lies the quaint town of Pringle, a locale steeped in history and surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Southern Black Hills. Once a bustling stage stop, Pringle’s story is interwoven with the tales of pioneers, gold rushes, and the ever-changing landscape of the American West. Today, it stands as a testament to resilience, a place where the echoes of the past resonate amidst the tranquility of the present.
From Stage Stop to Settlement: A Glimpse into Pringle’s Past
Pringle’s origins trace back to the era of stagecoaches and westward expansion. Initially known as Point of Rocks Stage Station, it served as a crucial stop along the Sidney-Custer Trail. This trail, operated by Henry Pringle, was more than just a route; it was a lifeline connecting Fort Robinson in Nebraska to Buffalo Gap and onward to the burgeoning settlements of Deadwood and Custer in South Dakota.
Imagine the scene: weary travelers alighting from stagecoaches, the scent of horses and dust filling the air, and the promise of respite and supplies at Point of Rocks. The stage station was not merely a place to rest; it was a hub of activity, a meeting point for diverse individuals drawn to the allure of the Black Hills.
The Sidney-Custer Trail played a pivotal role during the Black Hills Gold Rush, an era that transformed the region. However, this influx of prospectors and settlers did not go unchallenged. The Lakota and Cheyenne tribes fiercely guarded their ancestral lands, leading to frequent attacks on wagon trains and stagecoaches traversing the trails between 1874 and 1876. The Southern Hills, with their isolated locations, also became havens for road agents and horse thieves, adding another layer of danger to the journey.
Despite the perils, a small settlement gradually emerged around the stage station. The settlers, resilient and resourceful, carved out their livelihoods through ranching, logging, and mining. In 1885, the settlement gained a post office, a symbol of its growing permanence.
The Railroad Arrives: A New Chapter for Pringle
The year 1890 marked a turning point in Pringle’s history with the arrival of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincey Railroad. This event not only transformed the town’s landscape but also its identity. In honor of Anna Carr Pringle, who extended her hospitality to the railroad crews, the town was renamed Pringle.
The railroad brought with it a surge of activity and commerce. A railroad depot was established, facilitating the transport of goods and people. Two stores emerged, catering to the needs of the growing community. Pringle became a vital link in the regional transportation network, connecting it to larger markets and opportunities.
Pringle Today: A Blend of History and Modernity
Today, Pringle exudes a sense of quiet charm, a place where the past and present coexist. Several historic buildings stand as reminders of its rich heritage, including the old Point of Rocks Stage Station. These structures evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting visitors back to a time when stagecoaches rumbled through the streets and the promise of gold lured fortune seekers.
Among the few businesses that remain open are the Hitch Rail Bar & Restaurant and the post office. The Hitch Rail Bar, a fixture in the Southern Black Hills for approximately 60 years, offers a taste of local hospitality and a glimpse into the town’s social fabric. Pringle is currently home to just over 100 residents, a close-knit community that values its history and way of life.
A Controversial Neighbor: The FLDS Compound
In recent years, Pringle has gained attention due to its proximity to a 140-acre compound belonging to the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). Established in 2003, the compound has been a source of controversy and scrutiny.
The FLDS, a radical polygamist offshoot of the Mormon Church, has faced accusations of sex abuse and legal challenges. The compound near Pringle, once managed by Seth Jeffs, a brother of the convicted Warren Jeffs, has been under scrutiny for various reasons, including non-compliance with state laws regarding the reporting of births and deaths.
The presence of the FLDS compound has sparked concern among local residents, some of whom have taken proactive measures to prevent its expansion by purchasing surrounding properties. This situation highlights the complex dynamics between Pringle and its controversial neighbor.
Location and Accessibility
Pringle is conveniently located approximately 11 miles south of Custer, situated just north of the intersection of South Dakota Highways 385 and 89 on Highway 385. Its accessibility makes it an ideal destination for travelers exploring the Black Hills region.
Conclusion
Pringle, South Dakota, is more than just a dot on the map; it is a place with a story to tell. From its origins as a stage stop to its present-day existence as a quiet community, Pringle has weathered the storms of history and emerged as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American West. Its historic buildings, natural beauty, and the stories of its residents make it a unique and compelling destination for those seeking to explore the heart of the Southern Black Hills.