2015 Map of Spink Colony

About this map

The James River snakes through the eastern half of this prairie landscape, creating a distinct riparian corridor against the grid of section lines in Spink County. Established on the high ground near the river's bend, the Spink Colony is a primary focal point, reflecting the unique communal settlement patterns of the Hutterite tradition in South Dakota. The terrain is dotted with small depressions and wetlands, notably Lake Dudley, which sits west of the river's main channel. Along the eastern edge, the Hillestad Cem serves as a localized landmark for genealogical research. The southern margin of the map is defined by the boundary between Spink Co and Beadle Co, illustrating the transition into the neighboring township. This 2015 survey documents the enduring agricultural layout of the region, where the section roads such as 182nd St and 396th Ave provide a rigid framework for the rural homesteads and communal lands.