The Great Plains of the USA have their own special magic. Vast expanses of grasslands and fertile soils have attracted people from all over to tame the West and live the good life, making a living from agriculture. Because of the flat topography, rivers tend to be winding and calm, perfect for relaxing. There are many interesting little communities here too, such as Wahpeton, North Dakota.
The county seat of Richland County in North Dakota is called a city, like all other communities in the county. In reality it's a charming small town. The Red River of the North separates it from its sister city, Breckenridge, which lies in Minnesota. The Red River Valley starts here, formed by the Otter Tail and Boix de Sioux Rivers flowing together. Fargo lies 47 miles or so to the north.
The original Native Americans who lived in the area were known as the Wakhpetonwan, a Dakota tribe. They inspired the name of the town. In 1872 the first settler of European descent moved in and three years later a railway link was built to connect the new community to the outside world. This led to rapid growth. However, the rivers, especially the Red River, were important transport links too and a vibrant local industry was the building of flatboats.
The modern-day city is home to nearly eight thousand people. Many of these are descendants of the Germans Scandinavians and Bohemians that moved into the area in the late 19th century. There are also people of Native American, Hispanic and African American heritage. The local economy depends on manufacturing, with several large plants providing jobs.
The history of the local Native American population as well as those early pioneers of European descent is told at the Richland County Historical Museum. A tragic event from 1897 is commemorated in the Riverside Cemetery. A group of circus performers were putting up the circus tent when lightning struck and killed some of them. Today circus performers still hold memorial services at the Circus Monument erected in their memory. At Abercrombie, several miles north of town, is the historic Fort Abercrombie. To see how a bonanza farm operates, head west to the Bagg Bonanza Farm.
A popular local attraction is Wahpper, the 'world's largest catfish'. It's a statue of a catfish and stands not far from City Hall. Kids will love Chahinkapa Zoo, which is located in Chahinkapa Park, a great place for a picnic, camping or some informal ball games. For a more formal ball game, visit the Boix de Sioux Golf Course, which has the distinction that it lies in both North Dakota and Minnesota.
There is a casino in nearby Hankinson where you can try your luck. If you prefer the quiet of nature, you're spoiled for choice with opportunities for fishing, hunting, bird-watching and camping. In winter, the snow-covered landscape simply begs to be explored by snowmobile.
There are wonderful restaurants and shops in town to help you enjoy the good life. Moreover, it's easy to stay over. The area has a great selection of accommodation options, including camp grounds, lodges, cabins, motels and hotels.
The county seat of Richland County in North Dakota is called a city, like all other communities in the county. In reality it's a charming small town. The Red River of the North separates it from its sister city, Breckenridge, which lies in Minnesota. The Red River Valley starts here, formed by the Otter Tail and Boix de Sioux Rivers flowing together. Fargo lies 47 miles or so to the north.
The original Native Americans who lived in the area were known as the Wakhpetonwan, a Dakota tribe. They inspired the name of the town. In 1872 the first settler of European descent moved in and three years later a railway link was built to connect the new community to the outside world. This led to rapid growth. However, the rivers, especially the Red River, were important transport links too and a vibrant local industry was the building of flatboats.
The modern-day city is home to nearly eight thousand people. Many of these are descendants of the Germans Scandinavians and Bohemians that moved into the area in the late 19th century. There are also people of Native American, Hispanic and African American heritage. The local economy depends on manufacturing, with several large plants providing jobs.
The history of the local Native American population as well as those early pioneers of European descent is told at the Richland County Historical Museum. A tragic event from 1897 is commemorated in the Riverside Cemetery. A group of circus performers were putting up the circus tent when lightning struck and killed some of them. Today circus performers still hold memorial services at the Circus Monument erected in their memory. At Abercrombie, several miles north of town, is the historic Fort Abercrombie. To see how a bonanza farm operates, head west to the Bagg Bonanza Farm.
A popular local attraction is Wahpper, the 'world's largest catfish'. It's a statue of a catfish and stands not far from City Hall. Kids will love Chahinkapa Zoo, which is located in Chahinkapa Park, a great place for a picnic, camping or some informal ball games. For a more formal ball game, visit the Boix de Sioux Golf Course, which has the distinction that it lies in both North Dakota and Minnesota.
There is a casino in nearby Hankinson where you can try your luck. If you prefer the quiet of nature, you're spoiled for choice with opportunities for fishing, hunting, bird-watching and camping. In winter, the snow-covered landscape simply begs to be explored by snowmobile.
There are wonderful restaurants and shops in town to help you enjoy the good life. Moreover, it's easy to stay over. The area has a great selection of accommodation options, including camp grounds, lodges, cabins, motels and hotels.
About the Author:
Come and visit the stunning Wahpeton in North Dakota and discover all its wonderful sites. To learn more about this destination, click on http://www.visitwahpeton.com.
