by Owen Wiese
In January, a major change was made with Minnehaha County Elected Officials. The change was made by compromising and agreeing. Ben Kyte and Kris Swanson took over the jobs of Bob Litz and Pam Nelson.
Sixty-five years ago, a change of much interest was made by two of the County Elected Officials.
Henry Rinderneck had held many County Offices since 1926. In 1956, he was the County Treasurer.
Earl McCart was a World War II veteran and Sergeant in the 654th Field Artillery Battalion Commanded by Oren Melton.
Rinderneck was a Republican. McCart was Democrat. Rinderneck was expected to win the election. The Democrats placed Earl McCart on the ballot just to have someone run. McCart was sent by the 654 Field Artillery Battalion for some training at Ft. Sill, OK.
So, what happened? Henry Rinderneck was involved in some controversy and received some unfavorable publicity. Earl McCart won! His wife Polly called him to relay the news.
So was made The Accidental Politician! It was the first time that a Democrat had ever won that office.
Earl McCart took his job very seriously. He worked hard to get voting machines. He worked hard to get money for preservation of the old Minnehaha County Court House. He accomplished much for the County and was re-elected twice.
In 1961, McCart was elected to one of the three seats on the Sioux Falls City Commission and was re-elected to two additional terms. He emphasized the Parks, the Library, and many other City needs.
McCart left public service in 1961. The City of Sioux Falls named a park at Western Avenue and Madison Street in his honor.
Pretty good accomplishments for an Accidental Politician!
