1. In 1885, the first Lutheran church in South Dakota was organized in Sioux Falls on January 2nd. The Salem Lutheran Church was founded by Scandinavian immigrants and is still an active congregation today.

2. On January 2, 1906, a devastating fire broke out in downtown Deadwood, destroying over 300 buildings and causing millions of dollars in damage. The fire was caused by a broken gas main and burned for over eight hours, leaving many residents homeless.

3. The iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial was first proposed by state historian Doane Robinson on January 2, 1924. Robinson saw the mountain as a way to boost tourism in South Dakota, and his idea eventually gained the support of sculptor Gutzon Borglum and President Calvin Coolidge.

4. January 2, 1942, marked the first issue of the Mitchell Daily Republic, which is still in publication today. The newspaper serves the Mitchell area and is known for its coverage of local news and sports.

5. On January 2, 1997, South Dakota Governor Bill Janklow signed into law a bill that made it illegal to smoke in most public places, including bars and restaurants. The law was controversial at the time, but has since been credited with improving the health and well-being of South Dakota residents.