History of Barnes County, North Dakota
Barnes County, located in southeastern North Dakota, is a region steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Established in 1873, the county was named after a prominent local settler, Isaac P. Barnes, and is known for its agricultural heritage, particularly wheat farming. Over the years, Barnes County has witnessed the shift from Native American lands to European-American settlement, the building of key infrastructure, and the economic transformations that helped shape the area. Today, it remains a vibrant community with a mix of historic landmarks, outdoor activities, and a deep-rooted connection to its agricultural past.
Early History: Indigenous Peoples and European Settlement
The Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived, the land that would become Barnes County was home to various Indigenous groups, including the Sisseton, Wahpeton, and Yankton Sioux tribes. These tribes lived along the James River, which was a major waterway in the region. They hunted buffalo, fished, and cultivated crops like corn and beans. The Sioux people lived in a seminomadic lifestyle, moving with the seasons to take advantage of the region’s abundant resources.
The arrival of European explorers in the 18th century marked the beginning of significant change for the Indigenous people of the region. French and British fur traders passed through the area, establishing trade relations with the Native tribes. However, by the mid-1800s, the United States government had begun to assert control over the region, leading to conflicts and forced relocations.
European-American Settlement and the Creation of Barnes County
Barnes County was officially established in 1873, following the completion of the Northern Pacific Railway’s expansion through the area. The arrival of the railroad opened the region to settlement by European immigrants, particularly those from Scandinavia and Germany, who were attracted by the fertile land. The area quickly became a hub for agriculture, especially wheat farming, and the county’s economy grew rapidly during this period.
The first settlement in Barnes County was made near the James River in what is now the city of Valley City, the county seat. The settlers established homesteads, built schools, and started farming. The influx of settlers led to rapid population growth, and by the late 1800s, Barnes County had developed into a vibrant farming community.
Impact of the Railroad
The establishment of the Northern Pacific Railway in the late 19th century was a key factor in the development of Barnes County. The railroad brought people, goods, and services to the region, allowing local farmers to transport their agricultural products to larger markets. Valley City, in particular, became an important railroad town, with the railroad depot serving as a major point of commerce. The railroad not only facilitated economic growth but also made the county more accessible, attracting new settlers and businesses.
The Early 20th Century: Agriculture and Economic Development
Agricultural Growth
In the early 20th century, Barnes County’s economy continued to be centered on agriculture, with wheat and other grains being the primary crops. The fertile soil of the region, combined with advances in farming technology, allowed for increased agricultural production. The expansion of grain elevators and milling operations in the area also helped to solidify Barnes County as a key agricultural hub in North Dakota.
The county saw significant population growth during this period, as more settlers moved westward in search of farmland. Towns like Valley City, and smaller communities like Oriska, Nome, and Kathryn, grew rapidly during the early decades of the 20th century. These towns became the economic and cultural centers of Barnes County, with thriving businesses, schools, and churches.
The Great Depression and Its Impact
Like much of the United States, Barnes County was deeply affected by the Great Depression of the 1930s. The agricultural industry suffered due to falling crop prices, droughts, and the Dust Bowl, which affected much of the Great Plains. Many farmers were forced to abandon their land, and the county saw a significant decline in population during this period.
The federal government, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs, provided relief to struggling farmers through subsidies, loans, and public works projects. These programs helped stabilize the agricultural economy in Barnes County and allowed the region to slowly recover from the economic downturn.
World War II and Post-War Recovery
Barnes County, like many other rural areas, saw a shift in its economy during and after World War II. The war effort provided a temporary boost to local industries, with many young men leaving to serve in the military. The post-war years saw a resurgence of agricultural production, as demand for crops like wheat increased due to global food shortages.
During the 1950s and 1960s, Barnes County began to see a shift away from small-scale family farming to larger, more industrialized agricultural operations. While farming remained a key part of the local economy, the county also saw the development of other industries, including manufacturing and retail.
Modern Era: Challenges and Transformation
Declining Population and Agricultural Shifts
In the latter half of the 20th century, Barnes County, like many rural counties in the Midwest, experienced a steady decline in population. As farming became increasingly mechanized, fewer people were needed to work the land. This led to the consolidation of farms, with larger, more efficient operations replacing many of the smaller family farms that had once been the backbone of the county’s economy.
This population decline has had a profound impact on the region, with some small towns seeing their populations dwindle and local schools and businesses closing. Despite these challenges, Barnes County has worked to diversify its economy by promoting tourism and other industries, such as manufacturing and healthcare.
Valley City and the Role of Tourism
Valley City, the county seat, has been central to Barnes County’s efforts to revitalize its economy. The city, often referred to as the “City of Bridges” due to its many historic bridges, has embraced its role as a cultural and tourist destination. The city’s historic downtown area, with its Victorian-style architecture and charming local shops, attracts visitors from around the region.
In addition, Valley City and the surrounding area offer numerous recreational opportunities, thanks to its location near the Sheyenne River. The river provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking, and local parks, such as the Sheyenne National Grassland, provide ample opportunities for camping and wildlife watching.
Education and Health
Barnes County is also home to Valley City State University, a key institution that provides higher education and contributes to the county’s economy. The university, which offers a wide range of academic programs, has helped attract young people to the region and provides an educational base for future generations of local leaders.
In recent years, Barnes County has also worked to improve healthcare access. Valley City has seen the development of modern healthcare facilities, and the county has focused on enhancing public services and amenities to improve quality of life for its residents.
Historical Sites in Barnes County
1. The Barnes County Historical Society Museum
Overview
The Barnes County Historical Society Museum, located in Valley City, is a great place to explore the county’s rich history. The museum features exhibits on the Native American history of the region, the development of agriculture, and the evolution of the county’s communities. The museum also showcases historical artifacts, including photographs, tools, and household items from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Location
Barnes County Historical Society Museum, 315 Central Ave N, Valley City, ND
Ticket Price
Adults: $5, Children: $2
Parking Information
Free parking is available in the museum’s parking lot.
2. The Valley City Railroad Depot
Overview
The Valley City Railroad Depot is an important historical site in Barnes County, as it symbolizes the role the railroad played in the county’s growth and development. Built in the early 20th century, the depot served as a key transportation hub for farmers and businesses in the region. Today, the depot houses a museum that offers insight into the history of the railroad in North Dakota.
Location
Valley City Railroad Depot, 1200 8th Ave SW, Valley City, ND
Ticket Price
Free
Parking Information
Free parking is available at the depot.
3. The Sheyenne National Grassland
Overview
The Sheyenne National Grassland is a stunning natural area that covers over 70,000 acres of prairieland in southern Barnes County. It is one of the few remaining intact prairie ecosystems in the United States and is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and prairie chickens. The grassland offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping opportunities.
Location
Sheyenne National Grassland, 1515 8th Ave SE, Valley City, ND
Ticket Price
Free
Parking Information
Free parking is available at various access points within the grassland.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Barnes County is located in southeastern North Dakota, bordered by the Sheyenne River to the west. The county is characterized by its rolling hills, prairies, and river valleys, which provide a picturesque landscape for agriculture and outdoor recreation. The climate is classified as humid continental, with cold winters and warm summers.
Climate
- Winter: Cold, with temperatures often below freezing from November through March
- Summer: Warm, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s°F (21-30°C) during the summer months
Key Facts
- Year Founded: 1873
- County Seat: Valley City
- Population: Approximately 11,000 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: 10 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Valley City, Litchville, Sanborn
- Major Highways: U.S. Highway 52, U.S. Highway 281, North Dakota Highway 1
- Adjacent Counties: Cass County, Stutsman County, LaMoure County, Ransom County
