Sturgis is a city located in Meade County, South Dakota, USA. It was founded in 1878 as a military outpost named Fort Meade, which was established to protect the settlers in the area from attacks by Native American tribes. The city was later named after Colonel Samuel D. Sturgis, who was a commander of the fort. Sturgis quickly grew into a hub for the surrounding mining and timber industries, as well as a transportation center due to its location along major railway lines.
Some notable people from Sturgis include actress Mamie Van Doren, who was born in the city, and musician Jesse James Dupree, who is known for being the lead singer of the band Jackyl.
The population of Sturgis has fluctuated over the years, with a current population of around 6,600 residents. The city experiences a significant increase in population during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, with visitors from all over the world flocking to the city for the event.
Sturgis is located in the western part of South Dakota, near the Black Hills region. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, with the meandering Belle Fourche River running through the area.
The economy of Sturgis is largely driven by tourism, with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally being the main economic driver for the city. In addition to tourism, the city also has a strong agricultural sector, with ranching and farming playing a significant role in the local economy.
Sturgis has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong focus on Native American traditions and cowboy culture. The city hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its unique history and heritage.