Samuel H. Elrod, born near Coatesville, Indiana, on May 1, 1856, worked his way through Asbury College, now Depauw University, graduated in 1882, passed the Indiana Bar Examinations, and went to Dakota Territory. Arriving in Watertown on July 2, he was met by Arthur C. Mellette, later governor, and on July 4 he gave an address at Clark in Mellette’s place. Impressed by the spirit of the community, he established a law office there. He was a delegate to the first Constitutional Convention in 1883, married Mary Ellen Masten of Coatesville, Indiana, in 1884, and, after appointment by President Harrison, served as government paymaster to the Sisseton Indians. He later held the offices of Postmaster, County Judge, and State’s Attorney, and in 1904 was elected Governor. As governor, he served as chairman of the Capitol Commission that planned the present State Capitol. After leaving South Dakota debt free for the first time in its history, he resumed his law practice in Clark and continued to take an effective interest in politics until his death on July 13, 1935. He was survived by his wife, who died in 1943, one son, and one daughter. To him, Clark was the best town, Clark County the best county, and South Dakota the best state, and his life was dedicated to their service.