Population: 25,897
County Seat: Watertown
Square Miles: 701
Formed in 1877, the county was named for a Congregational minister and legislator, Reverend G.S.D. Codington. Watertown was chosen the county seat in 1878. In 1878, Mr. and Mrs. O.H. Tarbell and several other families came to the area. Mrs. Tarbell is credited with being the first white woman in the county. In 1880 Arthur C. Mellette opened a land office in Watertown and became the last territorial governor and first governor of South Dakota. Medicine Lake, 12 miles northwest of Watertown, is fed by Medicine Spring, water that is heavily mineralized. There is no animal life in the lake. Geese or ducks lighting on it take off immediately because of its bitter taste. Lake Kampeska, the county's largest lake, is named for a Santee Sioux Indian word for "shining shells," which were formed on the shores of the glacially formed lake in the northeastern section of the state. These small shells were the size of a tablespoon and used when crushed to temper pottery, and later as ceremonial or decorative pieces. The Indians once held this lake in great veneration. Poets have sounded its praises in song and story.
Lake Kampeska is fed by numerous, large springs. It's located 3 1/2 miles from Watertown. The Glacial Lakes Region and the City of Watertown are fortunate to have this fine recreational and fishing lake so accessible.
