Big & Mysterious History of Sioux City, Iowa: Roberts and Cordura Murder, Pre-Sioux City

The area that became Sioux City and the surrounding communities existed long before the first settlers arrived. Explorers had been coming through this area since the 1600's and there have always been Indians residing in the area.

The present area known as Sioux City Iowa borders the states of South Dakota and Nebraska. The natural boundary is the Big Sioux and Missouri Rivers. Many still think today Iowa is only bordered by 2 rivers and this is what is typically taught in history class. This is incorrect. Iowa is bordered by 3 rivers. The Mississippi on the east and as before mentioned the Big Sioux and the Missouri along the west border. Because of the 2 rivers in this area of Iowa has always been popular and ideal for the Indians, explorers, trade routes, fur trappers, hunters and eventually settlement. Both rivers and the wooded area nearby provided resources as a food and water supply and early building materials when the area eventually became settled. The prairie land was and still is perfect for raising livestock and crops.

Link to previous article in the series:
Big & Mysterious History of Sioux City, Iowa: Roberts and Cordura Murder, Intro and Info.
Big & Mysterious History of Sioux City, Iowa: Roberts and Cordura Murder, Credits and Thanks

Links to pre-Sioux City history:
The American Occupation of Iowa 1833 to 1860
History of Iowa - Wikipedia