About the State Historical Society of North Dakota
The State Historical Society of North Dakota, founded in 1895, is the state's premier historical institution. Based in the capital city of Bismarck, it operates the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum and maintains the state archives, serving as the central steward of North Dakota's documentary and material heritage. The society manages a network of museums and historic sites across the state and supports researchers, students, educators, and families seeking to understand the history of the Northern Plains.
The society's collections document the full arc of the region's past, from the Native American nations of the plains through the era of pioneer settlement and the agricultural traditions that continue to shape North Dakota today. The organization has launched a research portal at findhistory.nd.gov to make its collections more searchable, reflecting an ongoing effort to connect the public with primary sources and historical materials.
Collections, Exhibits, and Programs
The society's work spans museum exhibits, archives, and public programming, including:
- The State Museum at the North Dakota Heritage Center, with galleries on the state's history and peoples.
- State archives holding manuscripts, records, photographs, and publications for researchers.
- Special exhibitions, such as a Sitting Bull exhibition, interpreting key figures and events in the state's past.
- Educational offerings including summer history camps, family programming, and resources for K-12 educators and students.
- A statewide system of historic sites and museums.
Planning Your Visit
The Heritage Center & State Museum is located on East Boulevard Avenue in Bismarck, North Dakota. Hours, admission, event schedules, and the status of individual historic sites can change, so confirm current details and search the collections through the official website at www.history.nd.gov before you visit.
Explore North Dakota's Historical Landscape
Use the When It Was app to discover historical businesses, landmarks, and buildings throughout North Dakota. See how your community has transformed over the decades.
Explore When It Was →