National Register Listing

Minot Commercial Historic District

a.k.a. See Also:78001996;80002929;85002997;83001941

Roughly bounded by Soo Line RR tracks, Burdick Expressway, and Broadway, Minot, ND
Local significance of the district:
Community Planning And Development; Commerce; Transportation; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

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.

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
Ward County, North Dakota, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara. These tribes relied on the Missouri River for water, transportation, and resources, and evidence of their presence can still be found in the form of archaeological sites and artifacts.

In the late 19th century, Ward County experienced an influx of European settlers, primarily from Scandinavia and Germany, attracted by the promises of fertile land and economic opportunities. The Great Northern Railway also played a significant role in the county's development, establishing towns and attracting more settlers. Minot, the county seat, was founded in 1886 and quickly grew into an important transportation hub and commercial center.

Throughout the 20th century, Ward County went through various economic highs and lows. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming and cattle ranching, formed the backbone of the local economy. In the 1950s, the discovery of oil and gas reserves brought new prosperity to the county, leading to the establishment of petroleum-related industries and infrastructure. Today, Ward County continues to be a key player in North Dakota's energy sector.

Ward County has also witnessed significant social and cultural developments. It is home to Minot Air Force Base, which played a crucial role during the Cold War and remains an important military installation. The county has seen population growth, urbanization, and diversification, with a mix of industry, education, and healthcare contributing to its vitality. Ward County embodies North Dakota's pioneering spirit, from its Native American heritage to its agricultural roots and its continued adaptability to changing economic and social landscapes.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Ward County, North Dakota.

  • 1885 - Ward County is officially established in the Dakota Territory
  • 1886 - The first settlers arrive in the area, primarily of Scandinavian and German descent
  • 1890 - The Great Northern Railway extends its line into the county, leading to increased settlement and economic growth
  • 1904 - The city of Minot is incorporated as the county seat of Ward County
  • 1914 - The Mouse River Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area in the county
  • 1920 - The Ward County Courthouse is built in Minot, replacing the previous courthouse
  • 1956 - The Minot Air Force Base is established, bringing economic opportunities and growth to the county
  • 1969 - The Mouse River Flood causes significant damage to Minot and other areas in Ward County
  • 1997 - The Minot International Airport opens, improving transportation infrastructure in the county
  • 2011 - Another major flood hits Minot and other parts of the county, causing widespread destruction