Cities and Towns in Ransom County, North Dakota
Founded in 1873, Ransom County is one of 53 counties in the state of North Dakota. The city of Lisbon is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Ransom County has a population of 5,675 and area of 863 square miles (2,235 km²).
List of all cities in Ransom County, ND alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Elliott, ND | 58054 | 701 |
| Enderlin, ND | 58027 | 701 |
| Englevale, ND | 58033 | 701 |
| Fort Ransom, ND | 58033 | 701 |
| Lisbon, ND | 58054 | 701 |
| Lucca, ND | 58027 | 701 |
| Sheldon, ND | 58068 | 701 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ransom County, North Dakota
Lisbon
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.29 square miles
- Population: 2,204 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58054
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.4411° N, 97.6825° W
Location and History
Lisbon, the county seat of Ransom County, is situated in the southeastern part of North Dakota along the Sheyenne River. Founded in 1880 by Joseph L. Colton, the city was named after Lisbon, New York, his wife’s hometown. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred Lisbon’s growth, establishing it as a regional hub for agriculture and commerce. Over the years, Lisbon has maintained its historical charm while adapting to modern developments, serving as a central point for the surrounding rural communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lisbon is served by the Lisbon Public School District, which offers education from kindergarten through 12th grade, emphasizing academic excellence and extracurricular involvement. A notable landmark in the city is the Ransom County Courthouse, an architectural centerpiece that has been in operation since 1883. Additionally, the city features the Scenic Theater, established in 1911, which is recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating movie theaters in the United States. The Sheyenne River provides recreational opportunities, with Sandager Park offering camping, picnicking, and river access for canoeing and fishing.
Enderlin
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.63 square miles
- Population: 881 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58027
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.6233° N, 97.6000° W
Location and History
Enderlin is located in the northeastern part of Ransom County, extending partially into Cass County. Founded in 1891, the city’s name is believed to derive from the German phrase “End der Line,” reflecting its early role as a terminus for the Soo Line Railroad. The railroad’s presence was instrumental in Enderlin’s development, fostering growth in agriculture and industry. Over time, Enderlin has evolved into a community that balances its rich history with contemporary living, serving as a local center for the surrounding rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Enderlin Area School District provides comprehensive education from elementary through high school, focusing on academic achievement and community engagement. A significant landmark in Enderlin is the Robert Lindemann House, built in 1913 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing early 20th-century architecture. The city also features the Enderlin Golf Course, offering recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, and the Enderlin Historical Museum, which preserves and exhibits artifacts related to the city’s heritage.
Fort Ransom
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.26 square miles
- Population: 77 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58033
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.5261° N, 97.9333° W
Location and History
Fort Ransom is nestled in the scenic Sheyenne River Valley in the western part of Ransom County. The city derives its name from the historic Fort Ransom, established in 1867 to protect settlers and trade routes in the area. Although the fort was decommissioned in 1872, the community that developed nearby retained the name, honoring its military heritage. Fort Ransom’s picturesque setting and rich history have made it a focal point for tourism and cultural preservation within the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks
While Fort Ransom does not have its own school district, students typically attend schools in nearby communities such as Lisbon. A prominent landmark is the Fort Ransom State Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding, amidst the natural beauty of the Sheyenne River Valley. The city also hosts the annual Sodbuster Days, a festival celebrating pioneer life with demonstrations, crafts, and entertainment, reflecting the area’s cultural heritage.
Sheldon
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.30 square miles
- Population: 116 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58068
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.5883° N, 97.4861° W
Location and History
Sheldon is situated in the northeastern part of Ransom County. Established in the late 19th century, the city was named after an early settler or possibly a railroad official. The expansion of the railroad network played a crucial role in Sheldon’s development, facilitating the transport of agricultural products and contributing to the growth of the local economy. Over the years, Sheldon has maintained its small-town atmosphere, characterized by a close-knit community and rural charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sheldon is part of the Enderlin Area School District, with students attending schools in nearby Enderlin. A notable landmark in Sheldon is the Sheldon Community Center, which serves as a venue for local events, gatherings, and recreational activities, fostering community engagement. The city also features several parks and open spaces, providing residents with areas for outdoor activities and leisure.
Elliott
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.25 square miles
- Population: 25 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 58054
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.5167° N, 97.8833° W
Location and History
Elliott is located in the western part of Ransom County. The city was established in the early 20th century, likely named after a local family or individual influential in its founding. Elliott’s development was closely tied to agriculture, serving as a small community center for the surrounding farming areas.
