Historical Markers in McLean County, North Dakota
North Dakota was the first state to have a state-owned flour mill, which was established in 1922. The mill helped to create a stable market for North Dakota wheat and has since become a major supplier of flour to bakeries and food companies across the country.
About McLean County
McLean County Timeline
McLean County, North Dakota has a rich history that stretches back to the early 19th century. The area that is now McLean County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Mandan and Hidatsa peoples. European settlers began arriving in the area in the 1870s, attracted by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming. The establishment of Fort Clark in 1830 further encouraged settlement in the region.
In 1883, the Great Northern Railway extended its tracks through McLean County, leading to a boom in the local economy. The town of Washburn, which was founded that year, became the county seat. The railroad brought new industries and attracted more settlers to the area.
The early 20th century saw further development in McLean County. Oil exploration began in the 1920s, and the discovery of oil in 1951 led to an economic boom. The town of Max, located in McLean County, became an important oil hub. The county's population continued to grow, and new towns were established to support the oil industry.
Today, McLean County remains an important agricultural and energy-producing region. The county is home to a mix of small towns and rural communities, with agriculture and oil being the primary industries. The area also offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hunting, fishing, and boating. McLean County's history of settlement and development continues to shape its identity as a vibrant and economically diverse region in North Dakota.
In 1883, the Great Northern Railway extended its tracks through McLean County, leading to a boom in the local economy. The town of Washburn, which was founded that year, became the county seat. The railroad brought new industries and attracted more settlers to the area.
The early 20th century saw further development in McLean County. Oil exploration began in the 1920s, and the discovery of oil in 1951 led to an economic boom. The town of Max, located in McLean County, became an important oil hub. The county's population continued to grow, and new towns were established to support the oil industry.
Today, McLean County remains an important agricultural and energy-producing region. The county is home to a mix of small towns and rural communities, with agriculture and oil being the primary industries. The area also offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hunting, fishing, and boating. McLean County's history of settlement and development continues to shape its identity as a vibrant and economically diverse region in North Dakota.
McLean County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of McLean County, North Dakota.
- 1881: McLean County is established as a county in the Dakota Territory.
- 1883: The first post office is established in the county.
- 1889: North Dakota becomes a state, and McLean County remains a part of it.
- 1893: The county seat is established in Washburn.
- 1905: The Soo Line Railroad reaches the county, boosting economic development.
- 1920s: The county experiences an agricultural boom with an increase in wheat production.
- 1930s: The Great Depression hits the county, causing economic hardships.
- 1950s: The Garrison Dam is constructed on the Missouri River, leading to the creation of Lake Sakakawea and impacting the county's landscape.
- 2000s: Wind energy becomes a significant industry in the county with the establishment of wind farms.
- 2010s: McLean County celebrates its 125th anniversary as a county.