Geographic Center of the Nation Monument was added to Your Favorites!
Belle Fourche, South Dakota
Claim this place to tell your story your way.
The true geographic center of the contiguous United States is located approximately 20 miles north of Belle Fourche, but the monument was placed in the city for accessibility.
Belle Fourche was selected due to its proximity to the calculated center and its historical significance as a transportation hub.
The Geographic Center of the Nation Monument was dedicated on August 21, 2007, to mark the spot after the addition of Alaska and Hawaii shifted the center from Kansas.
The monument features a 21-foot diameter compass rose with a 12-inch bronze marker at its center, symbolizing the nation's heart.
In the late 19th century, Belle Fourche was one of the largest cattle shipping centers in the world, contributing to its selection for the monument.
Located adjacent to the monument, the Tri-State Museum offers exhibits on the history and culture of South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana.
