In 1860 near this place, the first schoolhouse in the territory that now comprises the states of South Dakota, North Dakota, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana was erected. Its first teacher was Emma J. Bradford, and its pupils were John Bradford, Geo. McDaniels, Leanna Bradford, Ira Brown, Mary McDaniels, Melissa Brown, Geo. G. Rounds, and Delia Rounds. In 1910, the Pioneers' Association of Bon Homme County erected the monument with contributions from school children and citizens, and the committee included J. L. Turner, G. W. Snow, F. A. Morgan, F. P. Brooks, and A. J. Abbott.