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 city was named after the area's Native American inhabitants, a Dakota tribe known as the Wakhpetonwan. European settlement began in the mid-1800s, with the first settler arriving in 1869. The village slowly grew until 1872, when the railroad came and brought with it rapid growth. In the early days, flatboat building provided employment to many of the local inhabitants and the Red River was an important trade and transport route.
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 Richland County Historical Museum is a great place to learn more about local history, especially that of the Native American population and the pioneers. Children will love the Bagg Bonanza Farm to the west of town while history buffs shouldn't miss Fort Abercrombie to the north. In Riverside Cemetery just south of town you'll find the Circus Monument, erected in memory of circus workers who died when thunder struck as they were raising the circus tent in 1897. Circus performers still hold memorial services here.
If you've always wanted to tee off in two different states, be sure to play a round of golf at the Boix de Sioux Golf Course, which lies partially in North Dakota and partially in Minnesota. Chahinkapa Park, home to the Chahinkapa Zoo, is nearby and has several sports facilities. Near City Hall is a quirky but popular attraction in the form of a huge fiberglass statue of a catfish. Its name is Wahpper.
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 city was named after the area's Native American inhabitants, a Dakota tribe known as the Wakhpetonwan. European settlement began in the mid-1800s, with the first settler arriving in 1869. The village slowly grew until 1872, when the railroad came and brought with it rapid growth. In the early days, flatboat building provided employment to many of the local inhabitants and the Red River was an important trade and transport route.
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 Richland County Historical Museum is a great place to learn more about local history, especially that of the Native American population and the pioneers. Children will love the Bagg Bonanza Farm to the west of town while history buffs shouldn't miss Fort Abercrombie to the north. In Riverside Cemetery just south of town you'll find the Circus Monument, erected in memory of circus workers who died when thunder struck as they were raising the circus tent in 1897. Circus performers still hold memorial services here.
If you've always wanted to tee off in two different states, be sure to play a round of golf at the Boix de Sioux Golf Course, which lies partially in North Dakota and partially in Minnesota. Chahinkapa Park, home to the Chahinkapa Zoo, is nearby and has several sports facilities. Near City Hall is a quirky but popular attraction in the form of a huge fiberglass statue of a catfish. Its name is Wahpper.
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.
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