National Register Listings in Rolette County, North Dakota
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.
About Rolette County
Rolette County Timeline
Rolette County, located in North Dakota, has a rich history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Dakota Sioux and Chippewa (Ojibwe) people, who relied on the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering. European explorers and fur traders first arrived in the area in the early 18th century, establishing trading posts along the nearby rivers.
In the late 19th century, Rolette County experienced significant settlement by European immigrants, primarily of French and Norwegian descent. The county was officially established in 1873 and named after Joseph Rolette Sr., a prominent fur trader and politician. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming, became the backbone of the county's economy during this time, leading to the growth of small towns and villages throughout the area.
The arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the late 1800s brought further development to Rolette County. The railway facilitated transportation of goods, spurred economic growth, and contributed to the county's population growth. With improved infrastructure and access to markets, more settlers arrived, establishing businesses and contributing to the county's thriving agricultural industry.
In the 20th century, Rolette County faced challenges such as the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, which caused significant economic hardships for farmers in the region. However, the county rebounded and continued to evolve, diversifying its economy beyond agriculture. Today, Rolette County remains a vibrant community that celebrates its heritage and agricultural roots while also embracing modern advancements and opportunities.
In the late 19th century, Rolette County experienced significant settlement by European immigrants, primarily of French and Norwegian descent. The county was officially established in 1873 and named after Joseph Rolette Sr., a prominent fur trader and politician. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming, became the backbone of the county's economy during this time, leading to the growth of small towns and villages throughout the area.
The arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the late 1800s brought further development to Rolette County. The railway facilitated transportation of goods, spurred economic growth, and contributed to the county's population growth. With improved infrastructure and access to markets, more settlers arrived, establishing businesses and contributing to the county's thriving agricultural industry.
In the 20th century, Rolette County faced challenges such as the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, which caused significant economic hardships for farmers in the region. However, the county rebounded and continued to evolve, diversifying its economy beyond agriculture. Today, Rolette County remains a vibrant community that celebrates its heritage and agricultural roots while also embracing modern advancements and opportunities.
Rolette County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Rolette County, North Dakota.
- 1873-1884: Rolette County was part of Buffalo County
- 1885: Rolette County was officially established
- 1887: Dunseith became the county seat
- 1888: Rolette became the county seat
- Early 1900s: Agriculture dominated the county's economy
- 1915: Rolla was incorporated as a city
- 1920s-1930s: Rolette County experienced population growth due to agricultural expansion
- 1950s: The construction of Lake Metigoshe State Park attracted tourists
- 1970s: The oil boom led to economic growth in the county
- 2000s: Rolette County faced challenges such as population decline and struggle to attract businesses