Historical Markers in
Grand Forks County, North Dakota

A Brutal Winter A Flood of Assistance A Story of Triumph Alexander Griggs B-25J "Flo" Blizzard "Hannah" Blooming 46 School House C.C.C. Memorial Campbell House Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) Project Digging Through the Muck Dinnie Block Evacuating Two Cities Fannie Mahood Heath Memorial Garden Flames and Flood Grand Forks County Courthouse Grand Forks Flood Protection Project Grand Forks' First Post Office Larimore City Hall Lincoln Drive - a neighborhood history Lustron Minuteman III ICBM Missile Transporter Erector New Hampshire Apartments North Dakota's Oldest Concrete Pavement Old Fort Totten Trail Oxcarts Rebuilding and Recovery Returning to Devastation Security Trust Company The Flood Fight Begins The Flood of 1997 The Old Red River Ox-Cart Trail The River Wins Welcome to Memorial Park
North Dakota was the birthplace of several famous figures, including author Louis L'Amour, entrepreneur Harold Hamm, and actress Angie Dickinson.
North Dakota random facts
Grand Forks County, North Dakota, has a rich and diverse history that spans over centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe people. European settlement began in the early 19th century, with fur traders and explorers making their way to the region.

In 1870, Grand Forks County was officially established as a county. The county's name is derived from the location at the junction of the Red and Red Lake Rivers, known as the "grand forks." The settlement of Grand Forks quickly grew in the late 19th century due to the expansion of the railroad and the opening of the University of North Dakota in 1883.

The early 20th century brought challenges to Grand Forks County, as it faced several devastating floods. The most notable was the Great Flood of 1997, which caused extensive damage to the city and resulted in the evacuation of thousands of residents. However, the community rallied together to rebuild and recover, showcasing the resilience and determination of its residents.

Today, Grand Forks County is a thriving community with a diversified economy. It is home to various industries, including agriculture, education, healthcare, and technology. The county continues to grow and develop, with a strong focus on preserving its heritage and fostering a vibrant cultural scene. From its Native American roots to its modern-day achievements, Grand Forks County stands as a testament to the strength and spirit of its people.

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

  • 1812-1825: Assiniboine and Dakota Native American tribes inhabited the area.
  • 1870: The Red River Valley was opened for settlement, leading to the establishment of Grand Forks County.
  • 1872: The City of Grand Forks was founded and became the county seat.
  • 1881: The University of North Dakota was established in Grand Forks.
  • 1927: The devastating Red River flood caused significant damage in the county.
  • 1948: The Grand Forks Air Force Base was established.
  • 1997: Grand Forks County, along with the city, experienced a second major flood, resulting in widespread destruction.