National Register Listing

McHenry Railroad Loop

a.k.a. McHenry;End of Line;Northern Pacific Railroad Turn Around Lo

E side of ND 20, McHenry, ND
Local significance of the structure:
Commerce; Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

railroads
North Dakota was the first state to provide free high school education to all of its residents, starting in 1905. This early commitment to education helped North Dakota develop one of the highest rates of high school graduation in the country.
North Dakota random facts
Foster County, located in North Dakota, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The county was named after prominent state legislator George I. Foster, who played a crucial role in the development and organization of the county. It was established on March 26, 1873, making it one of the oldest counties in the state.

Early settlers were primarily of European descent, with Norwegian and German immigrants being the most prevalent. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy from the beginning. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for successful farming, and crops such as wheat, barley, and corn became staples of the region.

In the late 19th century, the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway greatly impacted Foster County's growth and prosperity. Rail transportation allowed for easier export of agricultural products and improved access to goods and services. Several small towns sprouted along the railway, including Carrington, the county seat, which quickly became a central hub for trade and commerce.

Over the years, Foster County has faced its share of challenges, including droughts and economic hardships. However, the county has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Today, Foster County remains an important agricultural region, with modern farming techniques and technologies enhancing productivity and sustainability. The county also boasts a strong sense of community, with various events and activities highlighting its rich history and culture.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Foster County, North Dakota.

  • 1873 - Foster County was established on February 20.
  • 1882 - Carrington founded as the county seat on April 5.
  • 1883 - The railroad reached Carrington in the summer.
  • 1885 - Foster County's first courthouse was completed.
  • 1892 - The county's population reached its peak at around 12,000 residents.
  • 1917-1918 - Foster County was affected by the devastating Spanish Flu pandemic.
  • 1920s - The county experienced a decline in population due to economic hardships.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression impacted the county, leading to further population decline.
  • 1940 - The population of Foster County reached its lowest point at around 4,000 residents.
  • 1950s - The county began to recover economically, with an increase in agricultural production.
  • 1964 - The current Foster County Courthouse was constructed.
  • 2000s - The county continues to be primarily rural and agrarian.