Bismarck will celebrate its 150th Anniversary in 2022. Mayor Bakken proclaimed the year 2022 to be a celebration of Bismarck’s Sesquicentennial, and last week the Bismarck City Commission directed staff to move ahead with plans for the 150th Anniversary and to form a committee to look into ways to celebrate.
The City of Bismarck was founded in 1872 as Edwinton, Dakota Territory in recognition of Edwin L. Johnson, a proponent of the transcontinental railway. In 1873 the city was renamed Bismarck in honor of German chancellor Otto Von Bismarck with hopes of attracting German investment in the effort to build a transcontinental railway.
The history of our city is robust and full of colorful characters, outstanding achievements, and tremendous accomplishments.
With the upcoming opportunity to celebrate the 150th birthday of Bismarck, North Dakota, City staff members are seeking ideas to commemorate this significant milestone in our community’s history.
If you have an idea or interest in being involved, please contact City Administration at 701-355-1300.