National Register Listing

Green Consolidated School

a.k.a. Green School Community Center 328A0247

39 R St. SE., Valley City, ND
Green Consolidated School #99 School Historic Site is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places at the state level under Criteria A for its contributions to our understanding of public education during the period of consolidation of rural schools and as organized and legislated in North Dakota from its date of completion, 1916 to the year the last students were taught in 1974. It is the last known open country consolidated school in the state in its original location and remains in a very good state of preservation. The ND Department of Education defined open country as not associated with a settlement with a railroad depot. Considering the long period of significance, there were few alterations to the building. Under Criteria C the school building and playground equipment present a clear example of the construction, site usage, and conformity to state legislation and regulations pertaining to consolidated schools and their ability to meet state funding standards. Through this physical conformity to regulations, we can gain a deeper and more precise understanding of the educational goals, methods and pedagogical theories over time. This includes educational theories on grammar school and high school education, vocational classes, school dramas and presentations, play, children's nutrition at school, the community's use of the school for social functions, and changing standards for sanitation, heating, ventilation, lighting, and safety. This is by far the best preserved remaining open country consolidated (four classrooms or more) school in North Dakota.
Local significance of the building:
Education; Entertainment/recreation; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

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.

education entertainment recreation architecture
Audiobooks about the history of North Dakota.
The town of Rugby, North Dakota is considered to be the geographical center of North America. A stone marker in the town's courthouse square marks the exact location of the center.
North Dakota random facts
Barnes County, located in the southeastern part of North Dakota, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota Sioux Native American tribe and later became a part of the Dakota Territory. In 1872, Barnes County was officially established and named after Alanson H. Barnes, a Republican politician of the time.

The arrival of European settlers in the 1870s brought significant changes to the region. The growth of agriculture, particularly wheat farming, became the backbone of the local economy. The introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century further fueled growth, as it provided a means for transporting goods and people to and from Barnes County. Numerous small towns, such as Valley City, Litchville, and Wimbledon, were established as economic and social centers for the surrounding rural communities.

In the early 20th century, Barnes County faced several challenges, including the Great Depression and changes in agricultural practices. However, the construction of the Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway in the 1930s helped boost tourism and brought new opportunities to the area. Additionally, the establishment of Valley City State University in 1890 provided educational and cultural resources to the community.

Over the years, Barnes County has continued to evolve and adapt to a changing world. Today, it remains an important agricultural region, known for its wide-open landscapes and friendly communities. The county's historical sites, museums, and festivals serve as a reminder of its rich heritage and the contributions made by its residents throughout the years.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Barnes County, North Dakota.

  • 1870: Native American tribes settle in the area.
  • 1872: Fort Ransom is established by the US Army.
  • 1874: European settlers arrive and begin farming in the region.
  • 1879: Barnes County is officially organized and named after Judge Alanson Barnes.
  • 1881: Valley City becomes the county seat.
  • 1882: The railroad reaches Valley City, stimulating economic growth.
  • 1910: The Sheyenne River Valley is hit by severe flooding.
  • 1920s: The agricultural economy booms, with wheat and corn as the main crops.
  • 1930s: The Great Depression brings economic hardships to the county.
  • 1957: Valley City State University is established.
  • 1980: Valley City experiences a devastating tornado.
  • 2000s: Barnes County sees a decline in population due to rural-to-urban migration.