One hundred years ago, North Dakota was one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse states in the country. More than three-quarters of its people were immigrants or the children of immigrants. They lived alongside Native Americans of many different nations. Most residents probably could speak two or more languages. Over generations, these cultural traditions have carried on and have adapted to changing life in the region. Different foods, religions, art forms, and social customs have been shared across communities. Today, you can find Norwegian Lutheran churches holding a lefse and lutefisk dinner that neighbors of German and other backgrounds eagerly attend. Knoephla is served regularly in the state Capitol lunchroom. Everyone can appreciate the skill and beauty of Ukrainian pysanky eggs or Lakota beadwork. In many ways, North Dakota is more like a 'salad bowl' than a 'melting pot.' Newcomers to North Dakota continue to add new traditions to the cultural mix.
Immigrants often honored their homeland. This is a German Day parade in Wahpeton about 1908. SHSND RC57
Ukrainian Dancers. Many immigrants from Ukraine settled near Dickinson and Belfield, North Dakota. NDTourism, EV0045
Immigrants arriving in America at Ellis Island, about 1906. Library of Congress, LC-USZ62-11202
Many of the cultural groups that came to North Dakota made an effort to preserve their cultures. Organizations like the Sons of Norway are still actively engaged in preserving their heritage. What do the members of your family or your community do to celebrate your culture and history? Do you wear special clothing, eat food, or celebrate holidays and traditions that remind you of your family’s history and heritage?
