History of Benson County, North Dakota

Benson County, located in the northeastern part of North Dakota, has a history that spans from ancient Native American civilizations to the establishment of European settlements and the rise of modern agriculture. Formed in 1879, the county was named after L.P. Benson, a pioneer who was influential in the area’s early development. Originally home to the Sisseton and Wahpeton Dakota Sioux, the region underwent significant transformations with the arrival of settlers in the late 19th century. Today, Benson County is an agricultural hub, with a rich cultural heritage that reflects both Native American and settler influences.

Origins of Benson County

The Early Inhabitants and Native American Legacy

History of Benson County, North Dakota

Long before European settlers arrived, the land that became Benson County was inhabited by the Sisseton and Wahpeton Dakota Sioux tribes, part of the larger Sioux Nation. The Sioux lived in the region for centuries, hunting buffalo, fishing, and cultivating crops such as corn, beans, and squash. The area was rich in natural resources, with abundant fish in its lakes and rivers, fertile soil for agriculture, and vast grasslands that supported the buffalo herds.

The Sioux’s way of life, however, was dramatically impacted by the arrival of European settlers and the U.S. government’s expansionist policies in the mid-19th century. As part of the broader policy of Manifest Destiny, the U.S. government signed treaties with Native American tribes, including the Sisseton and Wahpeton Sioux, in the 1850s and 1860s. These treaties established reservations and reduced the land available for traditional ways of life. The Treaty of Traverse des Sioux in 1851 was a pivotal moment in the history of the region, leading to the establishment of the Sisseton and Wahpeton Reservation. Despite these treaties, tensions remained between settlers and the Sioux, who were displaced and often treated unfairly by the government.

By the time Benson County was formally established in 1879, many Native Americans had been forcibly relocated to reservations, and the region had undergone substantial demographic changes. However, the legacy of Native American culture remains an important part of the county’s identity, and today, the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate tribe continues to play a significant role in the county’s cultural and political life.

Formation of Benson County

Benson County was officially created in 1879 by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly, carved from the larger unorganized territory of Dakota Territory. The county was named after L.P. Benson, a prominent figure in the development of the region. Prior to its establishment, the area was sparsely populated, with a few settlers moving in after the Sioux were displaced.

The homestead boom, sparked by the Homestead Act of 1862, brought waves of European immigrants, mostly from Scandinavia, Germany, and Ireland, to the region. These settlers were attracted to the fertile land and the promise of free or inexpensive property. Agriculture, particularly wheat farming, soon became the backbone of the county’s economy. As the population grew, so did the need for infrastructure, and the arrival of railroads further accelerated settlement and trade in the area. By the turn of the 20th century, Benson County had developed into an agricultural hub.

The Role of Railroads in Benson County’s Growth

The late 19th century saw the expansion of railroads throughout the American Midwest, and Benson County was no exception. The arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the region in the 1880s was a transformative event. Railroads provided settlers with access to new markets for their agricultural products, particularly wheat, which became the primary crop. The railroads also made transportation and communication easier, opening the county to further settlement and development.

The construction of rail lines also led to the creation of new towns and commercial centers in Benson County. Minnewaukan, the county seat, became a key transportation hub, and several other towns, such as Maddock and Leeds, sprang up along the rail lines. As the county’s economy grew, agriculture became more commercialized, and farming communities expanded to meet the demand for food, grain, and livestock. The railroads not only facilitated economic growth but also helped establish a sense of connectivity with larger urban centers.

Agricultural Development and Economic Growth

By the early 20th century, Benson County had firmly established itself as an agricultural powerhouse. The fertile soil of the region, combined with favorable growing conditions, made it ideal for crop farming. Wheat, barley, oats, and corn were the primary crops grown in the county, but cattle ranching and dairy farming also became increasingly important. In particular, wheat farming took center stage, as Benson County became one of North Dakota’s leading producers of wheat, and by extension, one of the largest wheat-producing counties in the state.

The county’s economy remained largely agricultural throughout the 20th century. However, the Great Depression, particularly the drought and dust storms of the 1930s, created significant hardship for local farmers. During this time, many farmers lost their land due to foreclosure, and the economy suffered a severe downturn. The federal government responded with New Deal programs, which helped provide relief to farmers through subsidies, loans, and conservation efforts.

Despite the difficulties of the Depression years, Benson County rebounded in the following decades. The post-World War II period saw technological advancements in farming, including mechanization and the development of new crop varieties, which allowed farmers to increase productivity. Today, Benson County remains a major agricultural area in North Dakota, with wheat and livestock continuing to be key components of the local economy.

Key Historical Events

The Great Depression and Its Impact on Farming

Benson County, like much of the Great Plains, was hit hard by the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. During this period, severe droughts caused crop failures, and high winds led to soil erosion, which turned much of the land into a barren wasteland. This combination of economic downturn and environmental disaster had a devastating effect on local farmers. Many families left the area in search of better opportunities, while others were forced to sell their land.

In response to these challenges, the U.S. government introduced several relief programs under the New Deal. These included the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which employed young men in conservation and infrastructure projects, and the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA), which aimed to stabilize crop prices. In Benson County, the CCC focused on soil conservation efforts, planting trees to reduce wind erosion and improve the land for farming.

The Post-War Agricultural Boom

After World War II, Benson County, like much of the Midwest, experienced an agricultural boom. The war had disrupted global food production, leading to increased demand for American agricultural products. The federal government provided subsidies to farmers, encouraging them to increase production. Advances in agricultural technology, such as tractors, combine harvesters, and irrigation systems, made it easier for farmers to cultivate large swaths of land more efficiently.

The boom in agricultural production helped Benson County thrive, and the county’s economy grew along with the increased demand for its products. This period saw the consolidation of many smaller farms into larger, more commercialized operations. By the 1960s and 1970s, the region had modernized its farming practices, and Benson County became a model of agricultural efficiency.

Historical Sites in Benson County

1. Fort Totten State Historic Site

Overview:

Fort Totten, established in 1867, is one of North Dakota’s most important historical sites. Originally a military outpost, it was built to protect settlers from Native American resistance during the Indian Wars. The fort also served as a government agency for Native American tribes and later as a boarding school for Native children. Today, it serves as a state historic site, offering a glimpse into the military history of the region and the complex relationship between settlers and Native Americans.

Location:

Fort Totten State Historic Site is located approximately 20 miles southwest of Devils Lake, North Dakota, near the town of Fort Totten.

Ticket Price:

  • Adults: $5
  • Children (under 16): Free
  • Annual pass available.

Parking Information:

Free parking is available on-site with space for buses and RVs.

2. Benson County Courthouse

Overview:

The Benson County Courthouse, built in the early 20th century, is an important architectural landmark in the county seat of Minnewaukan. The building is an example of classical revival architecture and continues to serve as the administrative hub of the county. Its neoclassical design, with imposing columns and a grand entryway, reflects the pride of the community in its civic institutions. The courthouse is also home to several historical artifacts and documents that tell the story of the county’s development.

Location:

The courthouse is located at 210 Main Street in Minnewaukan, North Dakota.

Ticket Price:

Free to visit.

Parking Information:

Ample parking is available in front of the courthouse and along nearby streets.

3. Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Cultural Center

Overview:

Located near the border of Benson County, the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Cultural Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of the Sisseton and Wahpeton Sioux tribes. The center showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits on the Native American experience, including the region’s history before European settlement and the impact of U.S. policies on the Sioux people. Visitors can learn about the traditions, language, and art of the Sioux, as well as their continued presence in the area.

Location:

The center is located at 125 S. Main Street, Agency Village, South Dakota.

Ticket Price:

Free admission, though donations are welcome.

Parking Information:

Parking is available on-site.

Geography and Climate of Benson County

Geography:

Benson County covers approximately 1,116 square miles, located in the northeastern part of North Dakota. The county is part of the Red River Valley, an area known for its rich, fertile soil, which is ideal for farming. The region is predominantly flat, with rolling hills and wetlands scattered throughout. Lake Devils, a large natural lake, is one of the most prominent geographical features of the county. Its wetlands and shoreline provide important habitats for wildlife.

Climate:

Benson County experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Winters can be harsh, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing, and snowfall averaging around 40 inches annually. Summer temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. The county receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with most of it falling in the spring and summer months. These climate conditions make Benson County an excellent area for growing crops such as wheat, barley, and corn.

County Facts

  • Year Founded: 1879
  • County Seat: Minnewaukan
  • Population: Approximately 6,000
  • Population Density: 5.3 people per square mile
  • Largest Cities: Minnewaukan, Maddock, Leeds
  • Major Highways: U.S. Highway 2, North Dakota Highway 19, North Dakota Highway 281
  • Adjacent Counties: Ramsey County, Eddy County, Nelson County, Foster County, Towner County

Benson County’s deep agricultural roots, coupled with its rich Native American heritage, make it a region with a complex and storied history. The county’s historical sites, including Fort Totten and the Benson County Courthouse, offer a glimpse into the past, while its modern-day agricultural economy continues to shape its future. The resilience of its people, both past and present, remains a testament to the enduring spirit of this corner of North Dakota.