This article was originally published September 12, 2019
On Saturday evening, July 9, 1932, a tornado touched down just west of the Big Sioux River southwest of Sioux Falls on land that was not yet part of the city proper. The twister ran an east-to-west course along the farm-to-market road that would eventually become 41st street. It destroyed almost everything in its path between the present-day Empire Mall and a spot north of Shindler along SD Highway 11.
Two people were killed and at least twenty were injured. Elliott Dunkelberger, 22, sought shelter under a cabin near the river. He was killed when the cottage was blown off its foundation and fell on him. Charles Cronn, 73, died 6 days later of severe head trauma.
The 1932 tornado struck some of the same ground hit by the tornado of Sept. 10, 2019.
Below is a gallery of damage photos from that night.
1 of 7
— My project-1 (57).png
This bridge crossed the Big Sioux River at what is now 41st Street. In 1932, it was well outside the city limits of Sioux Falls.
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
2 of 7
— My project-1 (56).png
The tornado blew off the bridge deck and sent steel girders flying.
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
3 of 7
— My project-1 (54).png
Photo caption, "Steel beam driven through tree. Tornado at Sioux Falls, S.D. July 9, 1932"
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
4 of 7
— My project-1 (55).png
Photo caption, "Steel beam driven through tree. Tornado at Sioux Falls, S.D. July 9, 1932."
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
5 of 7
— My project-1 (53).png
The bridge girder and tree on display at the Old Courthouse Museum in this 2019 photo
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
6 of 7
— My project-1 (51).png
The tornado destroyed the Neptune Park casino, which was located near the site of the present-day Olive Garden on 41st street.
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
7 of 7
— My project-1 (52).png
Another view of the damage at Neptune Park casino, which was located near the site of the present-day Olive Garden on 41st street.
Siouxland Heritage Museums, Sioux Falls
