Dell Rapids in Minnehaha County, with a population of 2145 in 1965, was named for the dells and rapids of the Big Sioux River flowing through the town, which reminded settlers of the dells of the Wisconsin River. The site was first surveyed in 1859 and subdivided in 1864. Settlement began in 1868. It was named Dell City and incorporated in 1871, and its present name was adopted in 1872.