Lincoln County was founded in 1862 and named in honor of President Abraham Lincoln. Access to the Big Sioux River attracted many settlers and communities were established near its banks and railroad junctions. Early industry was led by agriculture as residents farmed crops and raised cattle and Canton was selected as the county seat. By 1900 the population of Lincoln County reached 12,161 and it is now one of the fastest growing counties in South Dakota. Today Lincoln County is home to approximately 44,828 residents