Sanborn County

Biography of Lewis A. Fox

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Lewis A. Fox (b. 1874, Faribault County, Minnesota) was the editor and proprietor of the *Tripp Ledger* in Tripp, South Dakota. After learning the printing trade in Lake Preston, South Dakota, Fox acquired the *Tripp Ledger* in 1893, transforming it into a respected local newspaper. Active in Republican politics and a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, he also served as justice of the peace for seven years. In 1898, he married Elsie E. Morris, with whom he had a daughter, Ruth. Fox’s family history includes deep military ties, with ancestors serving in conflicts from the War of 1812 to the Spanish-American War.

Biography of David M. Powell

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

David M. Powell, born April 13, 1836, in Roxbury, Delaware County, New York, was a pioneering farmer and stock grower in Davison County, South Dakota. He served in the Methodist Episcopal church ministry before moving to South Dakota in 1883. Powell was a member of both the last territorial legislature and the first state legislature of South Dakota. A dedicated Republican, he voted in every presidential election from Lincoln onwards. Powell married four times, with children from each marriage, and remained active in church work throughout his life. He made significant contributions to both his community and state legislature.

Biography of Newton B. Reed

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Newton B. Reed, a distinguished lawyer, has practiced law in Woonsocket, Sanborn County, for over two decades. As the first county judge, he played a prominent role in the county’s establishment, originally part of Miner County. Born in Illinois, Reed received his education at the Illinois State Normal University and the Illinois Wesleyan University. In 1882, he moved to South Dakota and settled in Woonsocket, where he has since built a successful legal career. Known for his Republican Party affiliation and civic involvement, Reed has made significant contributions to the development of Sanborn County, including his instrumental role in the creation of a beautiful artesian lake.