Bismarck, North Dakota is the state capital of North Dakota. It is located on the banks of the Missouri River, in the center of a vast agricultural region. It has a population of 73,435.
The city is governed by a city commission style of municipal government, with four commissioners elected at-large for four-year terms. The mayor, also elected at-large, serves as president of the commission and has few powers over and above his fellow commissioners.
The area that is now known as Bismarck was inhabited by people from the Mandan Nation for thousands of years. Their towns, villages and earth lodges are still visible in the city.
Early European settlers arrived in the 1870s. They were motivated to come to the area by the prospect of gold discovered in the Black Hills of South Dakota, and by the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway in 1873.
By the late 1800s, Bismarck was a thriving city with an active business district. Its dirt streets and wood framed buildings were filled with saloons, hotels, tin shops, billiard halls, and other commercial and industrial enterprises.
After the fire of 1898, many of these older buildings were reconstructed from brick and concrete. Two large and luxurious hotels, the Patterson Hotel and Grand Pacific Hotel, were constructed at this time.
Major changes to the economy of the city began in the mid-1900s when a number of industries moved into the city. The city is now home to two major hospitals, allied and independent health-care clinics, a large trade center, a regional technology center, and other industry leaders.
During this period of growth, the city developed its own public school system. It now operates sixteen elementary schools, three middle schools, and five high schools. The Bismarck Public Schools system has a total of 13,350 students and employs 1,500 workers.
A number of theater companies are located in the city, including Sleepy Hollow Summer Theatre, Shade Tree Players, and various high school groups. Other organizations include the Gannon and Elsa Forde Art Galleries, University of Mary, and Bismarck State College.
Musicians are also a major presence in the city, with many ensembles playing in and around town. Several choirs are active, and there are a number of musicians who play in a variety of musical genres.
The newest music group in the city is the Missouri Valley Chamber Orchestra, which was founded in 2000. It plays a wide range of musical styles and has an annual concert series.
Local dance studios and gyms also offer a range of classes and activities. The city’s parks and outdoor spaces are popular places for recreation, and there are many outdoor events to be enjoyed.
Museums and historical sites can be found throughout the city, including the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum. Other highlights include the restored Former Governors’ Mansion, the Art Deco-style North Dakota State Capitol building, and the Dakota Zoo by the Missouri River.
Point of Interest #1 Nikii Pix Photography, LLC., 402 E Main Ave Suite 202, Bismarck, ND 58501
Point of Interest #2 Bridal-N-More, 115 N 4th St, Bismarck, ND 58501
Point of Interest #3 The Capital Gallery, 109 N 4th St, Bismarck, ND 58501
Driving Directions TO Eden Med Spa From The Capital Gallery
