Hazel O'Connor

Exploring Falls Park on the West bank of the Big Sioux River, you'll come across a historical plaque honoring a remarkable local woman, Hazel O'Connor, who cherished history and the river that our city was built around. Born in Sioux Falls in 1897, Hazel often picnicked at the falls on Sundays. By the 1960s, she was saddened by the area's decline; it had become a dumping ground.

This ties into the intriguing history of R.F. Pettigrew, one of our founding fathers. He brought railroads to town, which contributed to the industrialization of the Falls, with businesses cropping up along its edge. This presents a dilemma: Sioux Falls' growth versus preserving its natural beauty.

In the 1960s, Falls Park was a mix of abandoned quarries, business ruins, and junk yards. But Hazel wasn't just a thinker; she was a doer. She pressured public officials and became a charter member of RISE, an organization that helped develop the river greenway. This paved the way for Phillips to the Falls and a master plan for Falls Park, transforming it into the vibrant destination it is today.

Hazel adored Sioux Falls and was dedicated to preserving its natural splendor. Her obituary reveals this was just one of many causes she championed. Hazel passed away in 1985, having lived a life full of passion for history—she even threatened to chain herself to a landmark to prevent its demolition. What an inspiring figure!