Dakota Datebook

On this evening in 1925, the Men's Conference at the University of North Dakota held a long stormy session. The topic was cigarette smoking. Despite UND's official ban on smoking, there had been a laissez-faire attitude toward enforcement.

North Dakota farmers always had plenty of problems to worry about, like wind, drought, hail, debt, floods, infestations, and blight. Another small enemy lurking near farmer’s fields were the varmints – including ground-squirrels, prairie dogs, and pocket gophers.

Carl Ben Eielson is a famed North Dakotan, known for being a pioneer of polar aviation. On November 9th,1929, Eielson and his mechanic Earl Borland disappeared on a flight to Siberia. They were on a rescue mission to an ice-bound ship. By November 16th, the ship reported that the plane had not arrived.

The wild turkey is a popular North Dakota game bird. It may be surprising to learn that they are not native to the state. Once they arrived, they found everything they needed to thrive. They found trees for roosting and grasses and shrubs for nesting. North Dakota’s plants attract insects for hungry chicks, and in winter there’s food provided by waste agricultural grain and by garden leftovers. In short, turkeys have everything they need.

In this episode of Dakota Datebook, we'll listen to Kade Ferris, enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa, in part two of "What Stories Teach Us."

This week in 1906, students and faculty at the University of North Dakota crowded into the armory to listen to a lecture from famous author and war correspondent Jack London.

A century ago, half of all American homes had a piano. It was often the most expensive piece of furniture. It was more than a musical instrument. It represented financial stability – a symbol of prosperity.

In this episode of Dakota Datebook, we'll listen to Kade Ferris, enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of the Chippewa, in Part One of "What Stories Teach Us."

Some people live in North Dakota for a short time before moving on, leaving only a scattering of information. Today we consider the example of Civil War veteran Charles Bolyard. His tombstone is in the Union Cemetery in Egeland, North Dakota. It’s one of the few traces of his time here. Engraved on his marker is the inscription “Charles Bolyard,” a private in the 123rd Ohio Infantry; born Feb. 3, 1840, and died Jan. 20, 1941.

Winter in North Dakota has a history of some great experiences and traditions. During the month of January, Dakota Datebook has celebrated winter in conjunction with the Northern Plains National Heritage Area and the Sons of Norway Sverdrup Lodge, as part of the inaugural “Vinterfest” a celebration of all things winter. Today’s topic is skiing.