Dickinson Live Cam

The Dickinson history in North Dakota is closely tied to the development of the city of Dickinson itself. Dickinson is a city located in Stark County, North Dakota, and it serves as a regional center for southwestern North Dakota. Let's explore the history of Dickinson and its significance in the region.

The area where Dickinson is located was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara. European-American settlement began in the late 19th century when the Northern Pacific Railway reached the area in 1881. The city was named after Wells S. Dickinson, a chief engineer for the railroad.

Dickinson experienced rapid growth due to its strategic location along the railway, becoming a key transportation hub for the region. The city's early economy was primarily based on agriculture and ranching, with many settlers attracted to the fertile land and vast grazing areas. The discovery of coal in the area further fueled the growth of Dickinson, as it became a center for coal mining.

In 1917, Dickinson State Normal School (now known as Dickinson State University) was established. The university has played a significant role in the educational and cultural development of the city and continues to be a respected institution today.