History of Vivian

 History of Vivian  

    As found in the “Vivian, 1906 – 1981, Echoes of the Past of its First 75 Years” 

compiled by Mary Stolley and generously shared with us by Sylvia Hulce now living in Arizona.

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 THE RESERVATION WAND: 1904-05 

The Milwaukee Railroad decided to build west of the Missouri River. In 1905, the railroad is as far west as Presho. In 1906 the railroad is as far as Vivian, and in 1907 the train went as far west as Murdo. On July 22, 1907 the train made its first run to Rapid City.

Moore  home and post office

Joe Moore, in 1892, was established in a store and post office located east of the present town site-said to be the first site of Vivian. In 1906, he moved the store and post office to Vivian; and in April of 1907 sold to John Morrissy. Miss Moore continued as postmistress.

Vivian got its name after the Christian name of Mrs. Harvey Hunter, whose husband was a pioneer lawyer, land agent and a representative of the Milwaukee Railroad Company when the town was founded.

Medicine Creek is a translation of a Sioux name meaning "Medicine Butte Creek," given it because it flows near Medicine Butte north of Reliance. Medicine Butte so called because it was a place where the Sioux Indians gathered to make medicine.

Stoney Butte was formerly McClure Butte, named for Patterson Frances McClure who was prominent in the early affairs instrumental in opening part of Lower Brule for white settlement. The name was appropriately dubbed "Stony Butte" by the early settlers because of its rocky exterior.

Lot sale

VIVIAN W AVE: July 13, 1906 

As was advertised the lot sale today took place (Wednesday forenoon, July 11,1906.) It was an ideal day and consequently an immense crowd was present. The special train bearing C. A. Padley, general land agent for the Chicago Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad Co.; his chief fieldman, A. L. Le Claire; the auctioneer, J. H. Chrichton, and also a large crowd of passengers arrived in the city about nine o'clock.

After looking over the town for about an hour, Mr. Padley invited their attention toward him as he delivered a short speech in regard to the up-building and development of the town and county, and the brief history of the railroad company. He then announced the prices of business lots at the minimum prices: corner lots, $200 and inside lots, $150.

Foot racing

VIVIAN WAVE: August 10, 1906  

Foot racing is the chief sport in Vivian at present. Nick Olson has proven himself to be the champion. Laf Rundall may have taken the honor if he hadn't stubbed his toe.

Click to Read the Full History

http://www.livgenmi.com/1895/SD/

Lyman County, 1985