Huron is home to the world’s largest pheasant. South Dakota’s state bird represented in a giant statue. A roadside attraction larger than life.
I just love a reason to pull the car over and get out and walk around. This bird is certainly worth the time to checkout. A giant fowl looking over highway 14 for well over 50 years.
This tribute to the state bird was built in 1959 by the Huron Jaycee’s. Governor Joss Foss even helped dedicate the statue on Oct 18, 1959. It had taken R.F. Jacobs four and 1/2 months to create at a cost of over 22 thousand dollars.
Recently, it has been restored to it’s original splendor. The feathered feature sits atop a building that was once a liquor store and gift shop – but now just serves as the perch.
I love an excuse to go for a drive and this is worth the drive for me. But, if you have the kids along on your visit to Huron, be sure to take them to Astro City as well, a giant play structure.
Here is another picture – I couldn’t pick my favorite.
