Mellette House

Arthur C. Mellette was elected the first Governor of the State of South Dakota in 1889. Although Watertown lost in its bid to obtain the State Capital, which was established in Pierre, the Mellettes maintained their home in Watertown. While the 1880s were good years for Dakota’s farmers, by the end of the decade there was a period of severe drought.

Mellette’s greatest challenge as Governor was to help the destitute through the crisis. Since he was firmly committed to simplicity and economy in government, he raised funds to aid the drought-stricken through private benevolence rather than through taxes. He operated an efficient government that met each challenge with courage, determination and energy.

When Mellette left the Governorship in 1893, he returned to his law practice in Watertown. After a short period of ill health, personal tragedy, and financial woes, the family moved to Pittsburgh, Kansas. Mellette died there, one year later at the age of 54. Arthur, Margaret and two of their four sons are buried at Mount Hope Cemetery.