Helen Mckennan & Mckennan Park Historic District Est. 1984

In 1883 Colonel Melvin Grigsby and Helen McKennan began developing the area with the introduction of the Boulevard Addition. To this day, Boulevard Street – now known as 21st Street – remains a defining feature of the district. 

Mckennan Park was opened in 1908 and the area surrounding the park would become home to many historic residences. In 1984 this area was found to be historically significant and was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

1841-1906

An early pioneer and land 

speculator in Sioux Falls, 

Helen McKennan 

recognized a need for 

city parks. She donated 

her home and 20 acres of 

adjacent land in 1906 to 

become what is now 

known as McKennan Park. 

Martin Wanserski 

Sculptor 

2008