Cities and Towns in Morton County, North Dakota
Founded in 1873, Morton County is one of 53 counties in the state of North Dakota. The city of Mandan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Morton County has a population of 33,611 and area of 1,926 square miles (4,988 km²).
List of all cities in Morton County, ND alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Almont, ND | 58520 | 701 |
Blue Grass, ND | 58563 | 701 |
Eagles Nest, ND | 58631 | 701 |
Fallon, ND | 58535 | 701 |
Flasher, ND | 58535 | 701 |
Fort Rice, ND | 58554 | 701 |
Freda, ND | 58535 | 701 |
Glen Ullin, ND | 58631 | 701 |
Hannover, ND | 58563 | 701 |
Hebron, ND | 58638 | 701 |
Huff, ND | 58554 | 701 |
Judson, ND | 58563 | 701 |
Lark, ND | 58535 | 701 |
Mandan, ND | 58554 | 701 |
New Salem, ND | 58563 | 701 |
Saint Anthony, ND | 58554 | 701 |
58566 | 701 |
Major Cities and Towns in Morton County, North Dakota
Morton County, located in the central part of North Dakota, encompasses a variety of cities and towns, each with its own distinct history, character, and role in the region’s economy. From the capital city of Bismarck to smaller communities, Morton County is a blend of urban and rural, with a growing population and significant historical landmarks. Below is a look at some of the major cities and towns within Morton County.
1. Bismarck
Location and History
- Area: 34.6 square miles
- Population: 73,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 58501, 58503, 58504, 58505
- Latitude: 46.8083° N
- Longitude: 100.7837° W
Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota, is located along the Missouri River in the central part of the state. Originally founded in 1872 as a railroad town, Bismarck rapidly grew in importance as a commercial and transportation center due to its location along the Northern Pacific Railway. The city was named after Otto von Bismarck, the German chancellor, reflecting the German heritage of many early settlers. Bismarck played a significant role during the westward expansion of the United States and became a state capital in 1889 when North Dakota achieved statehood. Over the years, Bismarck has transformed into the political and administrative hub of the state, with a diverse economy that includes healthcare, education, and energy industries, including oil extraction from the Bakken formation.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Bismarck High School, Century High School, University of Mary
- Landmarks: North Dakota State Capitol, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, The Gateway to Science
Bismarck’s educational institutions are diverse, with Bismarck High School and Century High School providing public secondary education, while the University of Mary offers higher education opportunities. The city is also home to several historic and cultural landmarks. The North Dakota State Capitol, an iconic Art Deco building, houses the state’s legislative chambers and stands as a symbol of the state’s political history. Nearby, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park preserves the historic fort and the home of General George Custer before his famous expedition. The Gateway to Science, a hands-on science museum, is popular for both school field trips and family visits. Bismarck’s downtown is rich in history and modern development, making it a dynamic city with deep cultural roots.
2. Mandan
Location and History
- Area: 16.5 square miles
- Population: 25,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 58554, 58554
- Latitude: 46.8240° N
- Longitude: 100.8770° W
Mandan, located just across the Missouri River from Bismarck, is one of North Dakota’s oldest cities. Founded in 1879, Mandan served as a key transportation and trading hub due to its proximity to the river. It was named after the Mandan Native American tribe that historically inhabited the region. The city experienced significant growth during the railroad expansion, which solidified its status as a major commercial center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over the years, Mandan has developed a diverse economy, with agriculture, energy, and retail playing significant roles. Today, Mandan remains a vital part of the Bismarck metropolitan area, offering a blend of suburban and rural living.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Mandan High School, Heart River Elementary, Fort Lincoln Elementary
- Landmarks: Fort Mandan, Heritage Park, Dacotah Centennial Park
Mandan’s educational system includes Mandan High School, one of the largest in the region, as well as several elementary and middle schools. The city also offers access to educational facilities in nearby Bismarck. Mandan is home to several notable landmarks, including Fort Mandan, the site where the Lewis and Clark Expedition spent the winter of 1804-1805. The fort is now a popular historical site and museum. Heritage Park showcases Mandan’s agricultural history with various monuments and features that highlight the area’s past. Additionally, Dacotah Centennial Park is a key recreation spot, offering green spaces, walking trails, and a playground. Mandan’s blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities makes it a thriving community.
3. Hebron
Location and History
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 750 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58638
- Latitude: 46.8663° N
- Longitude: 101.5034° W
Hebron is a small town located in the western part of Morton County. Founded in 1882, Hebron was named after Hebron, Ohio, by early settlers from that region. The town was initially established as a railroad stop, and its economy was driven by agriculture, particularly wheat farming, as well as livestock. Hebron’s location along major transportation routes helped it grow as a service and supply center for surrounding farming communities. Despite being a small town, Hebron has played an important role in Morton County’s agricultural sector. Today, the town is known for its strong community spirit and picturesque rural setting, with many residents commuting to nearby Bismarck and Mandan for work.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Hebron High School, Hebron Public School
- Landmarks: The Hebron Heritage Museum, Hebron City Park, The Hebron Wagon
Hebron is served by the Hebron High School and the Hebron Public School, which provide education for students in this small town. The town is known for its historic Hebron Heritage Museum, which displays local artifacts, including farming tools, historical photos, and other memorabilia that illustrate the town’s agricultural past. The Hebron City Park offers recreational opportunities with sports fields and picnic areas, providing a space for family activities and community gatherings. A unique feature of Hebron is the Hebron Wagon, a historic wagon that is a symbol of the town’s early pioneering history. Hebron’s tight-knit community and rural charm make it an inviting place for families.
4. Almont
Location and History
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 60 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58520
- Latitude: 46.7079° N
- Longitude: 101.3550° W
Almont is a small, unincorporated town located in the western part of Morton County. Established in 1904, Almont was primarily an agricultural community, with early settlers relying on farming and ranching for their livelihoods. The town’s proximity to both the Missouri River and major rail lines helped it establish itself as a service center for surrounding rural areas. Over the years, Almont has remained a small farming community, with a population that has steadily declined as residents have moved to larger towns and cities in search of employment opportunities. Despite its size, Almont has retained much of its rural character.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: Students attend schools in nearby towns
- Landmarks: Almont Cemetery, Almont Community Hall
Due to its small population, Almont does not have its own schools, and local children typically attend schools in nearby towns like Mandan or New Salem. The town’s most notable landmarks include the Almont Cemetery, which is the final resting place for many of the town’s early settlers, and the Almont Community Hall, which serves as the center for social events and meetings. While Almont is small, it remains a peaceful rural community, and its historic landmarks offer a glimpse into the town’s past. The tight-knit nature of the community fosters a sense of pride in its history and traditions.
5. New Salem
Location and History
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 58563
- Latitude: 46.8770° N
- Longitude: 101.5620° W
New Salem, located southwest of Bismarck, is a small town that has become known for its proximity to both agricultural and energy industries. Founded in 1883, New Salem was originally settled by German and Scandinavian immigrants who were attracted to the fertile lands for farming. The town has always been an agricultural hub, and it benefited from its location along the railroads, which made it an important stop for transporting grain and livestock. In more recent years, the town has also become involved in the oil boom resulting from the Bakken shale formation. Despite its small size, New Salem has managed to balance its rural heritage with modern economic influences.
Schools and Landmarks
- Major Schools: New Salem-Almont High School
- Landmarks: The Salem Sue Statue, New Salem State Park, The Saloon Museum
The New Salem-Almont High School serves as the primary secondary school for students in the town and surrounding areas. New Salem is home to some interesting landmarks, such as Salem Sue, the world’s largest Holstein cow statue, which stands just outside of town and has become a major tourist attraction. The New Salem State Park, located nearby, offers camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities, as well as a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty. The Saloon Museum, housed in an old historic building, provides insight into the local history of New Salem, particularly during the days of early settlement. These landmarks help tell the story of New Salem’s rich agricultural and cultural heritage.