RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – America is getting ready to celebrate its 250th birthday. Each day leading up to the big event, KOTA Territory News will feature a piece of South Dakota history.
On September 14, 1902, Deadwood entered a new era of modern convenience when the town’s gas company, the Deadwood Gas Company, turned on its natural gas services for the first time.
This gave Deadwood residents a safer and brighter alternative to oil lamps and candles.
The change took off quickly, with more than 150 homes and businesses having a gas main connected within 10 days.
It was a big step in transforming Deadwood from its Wild West mining camp roots to a more modern community.
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