Pipestone County has been home to mammoth-hunters circa 8000 BC, Dakota and Sioux Native American tribes in the 1600’s, French traders and explorers during America’s initial settlement, and many more. Both the county and its county seat, Pipestone, were named after their red pipestone quarries.Pipestone County was founded in 1857,but was considered dangerous “Indian Territory” until about 1863. In the decades that followed, Pipestone became a thriving railroad town lined with beautiful buildings constructed with Sioux quartzite from the county’s own quarries.  Today, Pipestone is home to about 9,596 residents and offers a popular historic district, a performing arts center, festivals, three local airports, and more.