1. In 1892, a deadly tornado struck the town of Wessington Springs, South Dakota, causing significant destruction and loss of life. The storm, which occurred on March 15, killed 13 people and injured many more.

2. On March 15, 1937, the state of South Dakota officially adopted the coyote as its state animal. The coyote is a ubiquitous presence in the state's rural areas and is known for its cleverness and adaptability.

3. In 1956, the town of De Smet, South Dakota, witnessed a unique event on March 15 when a royal procession passed through town. The procession was part of the U.S. tour of Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, who had come to visit the area where Laura Ingalls Wilder had lived and written her famous "Little House" books.

4. On March 15, 1961, the state of South Dakota officially adopted its current flag design, which features a blue field with the state seal in the center and the state name and year of statehood (1889) written in gold letters.

5. March 15, 2020, marked the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Dakota. The first case of the virus was confirmed in the state on that day, which led to a series of health and safety measures being implemented throughout the state to slow the spread of the disease.