Grand Forks County, North Dakota

Administration Building for the City of Grand Forks at the Grand Forks Airport Avalon Theater B'nai Israel Synagogue and Montefiore Cemetery Beare, Harriet and Thomas, House Ben Franklin Elementary School Blome, R. S., Granitoid Pavement in Grand Forks Blome, R. S., Granitoid Pavement in Grand Forks (Boundary Decrease) Building at 201 S. 3rd St. Building at 312 Kittson Ave. Campbell, Thomas D., House Clifford, George B., House Dakota Block DeRemer, Joseph Bell, House Dinnie Apartments Downtown Grand Forks Historic District Edgar Building Finks and Gokey Block First National Bank Funseth, Carlott, Round Barn Grand Forks City Hall Grand Forks County Courthouse Grand Forks County Fairgrounds WPA Structures Grand Forks Herald Grand Forks Mercantile Building 1898 Grand Forks Mercantile Co. Grand Forks Near Southside Historic District Grand Forks Near Southside Historic District (Boundary Increase) Grand Forks Riverside Neighborhood Historic District Grand Forks Woolen Mills Great Northern Freight Warehouse and Depot Hariman Sanatorium Hook and Ladder No. 1 and Hose Co. No. 2 House at 1648 Riverside Drive Iddings Block Kegs Drive-In, The Kelly, J. Nelson, House Larimore City Hall Lewis and Clark Elementary School Linwell, Martin V., House Lyons Garage Masonic Temple Metropolitan Opera House Midway Bridge North Dakota Mill and Elevator Northern Pacific Depot and Freight House Northwood Bridge Odd Fellows Block Ost Valle Bridge Oxford House Roller Office Supply Skarsbo Apartments Sorlie Memorial Bridge South Junior High School Speed Printing St. John's Block Commercial Exchange St. Michael's Church St. Michael's Hospital and Nurses' Residence St. Michael's Parochial School Stratford Building Telephone Co. Building U.S. Post Office and Courthouse United Lutheran Church University of North Dakota Historic District Valley Junior High School Viking Elementary School Washington School Wells-Denbrook Architects Office Building West Elementary School Wheeler, Dr. Henry, House Wilder Elementary School WPA Stone Structures in Memorial Park and Calvary Cemetery Wright Block

Grand Forks County, North Dakota, has a rich and diverse history that spans over centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Dakota and Ojibwe people. European settlement began in the early 19th century, with fur traders and explorers making their way to the region.

In 1870, Grand Forks County was officially established as a county. The county's name is derived from the location at the junction of the Red and Red Lake Rivers, known as the "grand forks." The settlement of Grand Forks quickly grew in the late 19th century due to the expansion of the railroad and the opening of the University of North Dakota in 1883.

The early 20th century brought challenges to Grand Forks County, as it faced several devastating floods. The most notable was the Great Flood of 1997, which caused extensive damage to the city and resulted in the evacuation of thousands of residents. However, the community rallied together to rebuild and recover, showcasing the resilience and determination of its residents.

Today, Grand Forks County is a thriving community with a diversified economy. It is home to various industries, including agriculture, education, healthcare, and technology. The county continues to grow and develop, with a strong focus on preserving its heritage and fostering a vibrant cultural scene. From its Native American roots to its modern-day achievements, Grand Forks County stands as a testament to the strength and spirit of its people.
Brief timeline of the history of Grand Forks County, North Dakota:

  • 1812-1825: Assiniboine and Dakota Native American tribes inhabited the area.
  • 1870: The Red River Valley was opened for settlement, leading to the establishment of Grand Forks County.
  • 1872: The City of Grand Forks was founded and became the county seat.
  • 1881: The University of North Dakota was established in Grand Forks.
  • 1927: The devastating Red River flood caused significant damage in the county.
  • 1948: The Grand Forks Air Force Base was established.
  • 1997: Grand Forks County, along with the city, experienced a second major flood, resulting in widespread destruction.

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