Are you the type of person that loves to take a look back at North Dakota history? Our state has such a rich and colorful past that it’s fascinating to look back at old photos of ND and see how things have changed. For example, back in the 1930s, it was a simpler time in the Roughrider State. It was a time of hardship: the Great Depression and the harsh droughts that struck the country hit our state even harder than most. We can only imagine what life was like back then, nearly a century ago. Thanks to the wonders of photography, a window has been preserved into everyday life. We can look back at photos of North Dakota from this time period and check out what it was like to experience history first-hand. Here’s a collection of amazing photographs from the late 1930s. The text with each of these photos from the history of North Dakota is the original caption that was given to them by their respective photographers:

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Do you know of any interesting old photos of ND or have any stories from North Dakota history to share? Tell us your family stories in the comments!

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History Of North Dakota

What is the oldest town in North Dakota?

Through the history of North Dakota, many of its towns and cities were founded in the late 1800s. One town far surpasses that time, and it is the oldest town in the entire state. Pembina, located in the northeast region, is not only the oldest settlement in the state but the entire original Dakota Territory, which includes South Dakota. It was originally established as a trading post in the late 1700s, not long after the United States was formed. It was recognized as a part of the country in 1823 and then officially founded in 1843. In comparison, most of the rest of North Dakota's oldest cities weren't founded until the 1870s. Pembina is one of a kind!

What are the oldest businesses in North Dakota?

If you're interested to know what business of the 1930s in North Dakota might still be around today, you're in luck. North Dakota has a handful of places that have been around for even longer than that. Peacock Alley, located in Bismarck, is the oldest, longest-running restaurant in the state. They are known for their great steaks and cocktails, and quite a variety of famous guests that have visited over the decades since it was established in 1933. The state is also home to the oldest, continuously-running movie theater. Located in Lisbon, the theater first started showing moving pictures in 1911 and is still showcasing today's films.

How has North Dakota changed over the years?

As you might have been able to tell from these historic photos of North Dakota, things have changed since then. The state has gone through changes over time, like going from gravel roads to establishing permanent roads and interstate systems. There are cities that have become huge and small towns that have disappeared altogether. We've seen multiple oil booms flooding an area with workers and then emptying just as quickly. Despite all of this, many of North Dakota's core values and ways of life have seemed to hold in place and many communities have stayed strong throughout the years.

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