1. On October 20, 1939, North Dakota Governor John Moses dedicated the new State Capitol building in Bismarck. The building, which had been under construction since 1920, replaced the original capitol building that had burned down in 1930. Today, the iconic 19-story structure stands as a symbol of North Dakota’s history and government.

2. October 20, 1868, is a significant day in the history of North Dakota’s Native American tribes. It was on this date that the Fort Laramie Treaty was signed, establishing the Great Sioux Reservation that included much of what is now North Dakota. Unfortunately, the U.S. government repeatedly violated the treaty, leading to conflict between Native American tribes and settlers that ultimately culminated in the Battle of Little Bighorn.

3. North Dakota’s first newspaper, the Red River Free Press, was established on October 20, 1871. The paper was owned and operated by F.J. Thompson, who used it to promote the interests of settlers in the Red River Valley. Over the years, the Red River Free Press evolved into several other publications, including the Fargo Forum, which is still in print today.

4. North Dakota’s rich agricultural heritage is celebrated every October during the annual Potato Bowl USA festival, which kicks off on or around October 20. The event, which takes place in Grand Forks, features a variety of activities, including a parade, concert, and football game. The festival was first held in 1966 and has since become a beloved tradition in North Dakota.

5. On October 20, 1881, the town of Minot was officially incorporated. Located in central North Dakota, Minot was named after Henry D. Minot, a railroad surveyor who helped establish the Great Northern Railway that ran through the town. Today, Minot is home to over 40,000 residents and is a hub for business, tourism, and education in the state.