It's True: Former South Dakota Governor Noem Will Have New Statue

Former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem will forever be part of the state's history next year.

Since 2010, The Trail of Governors Foundation has made it a priority to honor South Dakota’s chief executives in a "unique and lasting manner." The organization celebrates the leaders of South Dakota who shaped our state, and soon, former Governor Kristi Noem will have her statue added to this tradition.

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These life-sized statues, part of The Trail of Governors Foundation, honor all former South Dakota governors. The statues form the 3.5-mile trail from the State Capitol grounds to downtown Pierre next to the Missouri River. Officials with The Trail of Governors Foundation say work on Kristi Noem's statue has already begun.

Trail Of Governors Foundation (via Facebook screenshot)

South Dakota Sculptor John Lopez is already working on the statue paying tribute to the first female Governor of South Dakota. It will be unveiled in June of 2026.

The life-sized bronze statue of Governor Noem will be placed in Pierre, joining statues of her thirty-one predecessors on a Trail that extends from downtown Pierre to the State Capitol grounds. As with every statue on the Trail, this project is funded entirely by private donations

No June 2026 date has been confirmed yet for when Kristi Noem's statue will be part of The Trail of Governors Foundation.

Since The Trail of Governors Foundation is funded by donations, officials are asking for your help to support this project. They aren't just asking for help for former Governor Noem's statue, but also for future statues of South Dakota leaders.

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To donate to future projects for The Trail of Governors Foundation, you can find out more information here.

11 Things You’ll Only Understand After Living in South Dakota

From soda to pop to sloppy Joes, different parts of the country have their local quirks and language. Simple phrases can have totally different meanings, local events may seem weird, and food may go by a unique name.

If you're new to South Dakota, here is a sort of translation guide for some odd things you may see or hear.

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns

10 Things You Should Never Do in South Dakota

Go anywhere in the U.S. and you'll find traditions and customs that only exist in that part of the country. South Dakota is no different, and there are definitely some "do's and don'ts" when it comes to living here.

Be careful trying any of these things in the Mount Rushmore State.