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Walsh County, located in the northeastern part of North Dakota, has a rich and fascinating history. Here are seven interesting facts that shed light on the county's past.
1. Walsh County was established in 1881, and it was named after George H. Walsh, a newspaper editor and political figure from Grand Forks. Prior to its founding, the area had been inhabited by various Native American tribes, and later became a hub for fur trading.
2. The county seat of Walsh County is Grafton, which was originally founded as a transport hub for the Northern Pacific Railroad. The town grew rapidly and became a center for agriculture and manufacturing.
3. During the Prohibition era in the 1920s and early 1930s, Walsh County was a hotbed of bootlegging activity. The county's many farms were often used to grow illegal crops of wheat and barley, which were then distilled into moonshine.
4. In the mid-20th century, Walsh County was home to several important military installations. The Grafton Air Force Base, which operated from 1956 to 1971, was a key site for training pilots and maintaining aircraft during the Cold War.
5. Agriculture has always been a major part of life in Walsh County, and today the county is one of the top producers of sugar beets and wheat in North Dakota. The area's rich soil and favorable climate make it an ideal location for farming.
6. The area around Walsh County was also a major site for uranium mining during the mid-20th century. Several mines operated in the area, and the uranium was used for everything from nuclear weapons to medical treatments.
7. Over the years, Walsh County has been home to many notable figures, including former North Dakota governor George F. Shafer, who served in the 1920s and 1930s. Several famous athletes also hail from the area, including baseball player Roger Maris and NHL player Matt Cullen.
These are just a few of the many fascinating facts about Walsh County and its long and storied history. From its Native American roots to its role in the Cold War, the county has seen many changes over the years, but its strong sense of community and commitment to agriculture have remained constant.
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