National Register Listings in Golden Valley County, North Dakota
North Dakota was once home to a massive inland sea, known as the Western Interior Seaway, which covered much of the state during the Late Cretaceous period around 80 million years ago. Fossils from marine creatures that lived in this sea can still be found in the state today.
About Golden Valley County
Golden Valley County Timeline
Golden Valley County, located in the state of North Dakota, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. The region was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Arikara and Mandan. In the late 1800s, European settlers began to arrive, drawn by the promise of fertile land and the potential for agriculture.
The county was officially established on November 5, 1912, and was named after the nearby Golden Valley. The early settlers faced numerous challenges, such as the harsh climate and the isolation of the area. However, they persevered and began to establish farms and small communities.
One significant development in Golden Valley County's history was the arrival of the railroad, which brought improved transportation and economic growth. In the early 20th century, the county experienced a period of prosperity, with new businesses emerging and the population steadily increasing.
However, like many rural areas, Golden Valley County faced challenges throughout the 20th century. The Great Depression hit the region hard, causing economic hardship for the residents. The county also experienced a decline in population as many young people moved away seeking better opportunities elsewhere.
In recent years, Golden Valley County has focused on preserving its rich history and promoting tourism. The region attracts visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, including the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the picturesque Little Missouri River. The county continues to be primarily rural, but its tight-knit communities and resilient spirit make it a unique and cherished part of North Dakota's history.
The county was officially established on November 5, 1912, and was named after the nearby Golden Valley. The early settlers faced numerous challenges, such as the harsh climate and the isolation of the area. However, they persevered and began to establish farms and small communities.
One significant development in Golden Valley County's history was the arrival of the railroad, which brought improved transportation and economic growth. In the early 20th century, the county experienced a period of prosperity, with new businesses emerging and the population steadily increasing.
However, like many rural areas, Golden Valley County faced challenges throughout the 20th century. The Great Depression hit the region hard, causing economic hardship for the residents. The county also experienced a decline in population as many young people moved away seeking better opportunities elsewhere.
In recent years, Golden Valley County has focused on preserving its rich history and promoting tourism. The region attracts visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, including the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the picturesque Little Missouri River. The county continues to be primarily rural, but its tight-knit communities and resilient spirit make it a unique and cherished part of North Dakota's history.
Golden Valley County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Golden Valley County, North Dakota.
- 1883: Golden Valley County was established as a county in the North Dakota Territory.
- 1884: The town of Beach was established as the county seat.
- 1887: The first courthouse in Golden Valley County was constructed in Beach.
- 1914: The Northern Pacific Railway built a branch line to Beach, providing improved transportation.
- 1917: An oil boom occurred in Golden Valley County, attracting thousands of workers to the area.
- 1921: The county's population reached its peak at around 10,000 residents.
- 1930s: The Great Depression and drought hit the county, causing a decline in population and economic hardships.
- 1940s: The construction of the Bowman-Haley Dam on the Little Missouri River brought some economic relief to the county.
- 2002: The present-day Golden Valley County Courthouse was completed, replacing the old courthouse.
- 2010: The county's population was recorded at 1,680 residents.