Dakota Datebook

Leif Erickson led the first European expedition to North America around the year 1000. It’s difficult to determine how far inland they traveled, and their settlements were abandoned after a short time. Many centuries passed before Scandinavians began arriving in the New World in large numbers.

On this date in 1874, Brave Bear and three companions arrived in Jamestown and caroused with Henry Belland, an interpreter and guide assigned to Fort Totten. Belland later informed authorities that the men had boasted of killing some Chippewas up north and even showed him a fresh scalp.

Happy Fourth! In 1881, Independence Day celebrations were dampened by news of President James A. Garfield’s critical condition, following an assassination attempt two days earlier.

Rodney Kephart was born in Spencer, Iowa, on this date in 1917. He and his family later moved to North Dakota.

As settlers and prospectors moved into Dakota Territory, conflicts increased between the newcomers and the people who had long called the Great Plains home. The Fort Laramie Treaty of 1851 was an attempt to reduce that conflict and allow for free passage through Native American lands. The treaty established territory for the exclusive use of different tribes. Unfortunately, the terms began to unravel almost immediately. The United States lacked the resources to stop the flow of prospectors and settlers.

The term “Great American Desert” can be traced back to the 1820 scientific expedition of Stephen H. Long. At the time, the word “desert” was used to describe any treeless area. Long was not impressed with the promise of the High Plains. He saw the region as barren and lacking potential for agriculture. His assessment was that the land was unsuitable for settlement and discouraged westward migration.

In honor of June being National Adopt-a-Cat Month, we’re sharing a few stories today of our furry friends from years past.

Downtown Fargo is instantly recognizable thanks to the iconic marquee of the Fargo Theatre, which casts the word “FARGO” in glowing lights across Broadway each night. Less than a block away is another beloved landmark, the distinctive sign for the White Banner Uniform Shop. With its black-and-white, angular Mid-Century Modern flair, the sign has been a visual staple of Broadway since at least the 1950s, earning its place as perhaps the second most iconic sign in Fargo.

The American Legion is the largest veteran’s organization in the nation and has been a part of North Dakota since 1919. Each year members from across the state gather for their annual Department Convention, where the business of the organization is conducted, and officers are elected for the new year. In 1935, Grand Forks hosted the event, and it was a grand affair.

On this date in 1876, six-year-old Red Fox was c amped near the Little Bighorn when the 7th Cavalry arrived. Red Fox outlived Custer by nearly 100 years.