May 12, 2008 - 16:42:30 CDT
Menoken has fewer residents than its age, but that's going to change next month.The town was created 125 years ago, and today's population is only about 100. But soon this little town will hold approximately 2,000.
On June 21, Menoken, which is located about 10 miles east of Bismarck, will be celebrating its quasquicentennial with festivities throughout the day, said Marlys Frandsen, member of the history committee and editor of the history book.
"It means a lot to the town to celebrate 125 years," said Dave Ennan, committee president.
This event will be the biggest celebration since 1983 when the town celebrated 100 years, and according to Frandsen, with former residents returning and a plethora of visitors, the town is expecting approximately 2,000 people.
The town will start the day off with a school tour, fashion display and history book distribution. The fashion show will include items such as vintage clothing, wedding dresses and hats. Then everyone will meet at the Menoken Post Office for the opening ceremony.
Following the opening ceremony will be the parade. Anyone is welcome to participate in the parade. "We are expecting a big parade, everything from old cars to horses," said Ennan.
In the afternoon, Frandsen said there will be "something for all ages." There will be children's games, a tractor pedal pull, tug of war, a horseshoe tournament and local music. The evening will consist of a karaoke contest, cavalry re-enactment and dance.
With a small town of around 100 residents, but an expected turnout of 2,000 for the event, Frandsen said the town's deep history attracts some of the attention.
Some history of Menoken, taken from the Menoken History Book:
In 1873, 10 years prior to Bismarck being named the official capital of the Dakota Territory, the Northern Pacific Railroad was laying down the track, which would stretch from Fargo to Bismarck. Upon reaching the 17th siding west of Fargo, the railroad just named the place the Seventeenth Siding. This was the first name given to what is now known as Menoken. Once the railroad was completed and settlers began arriving, the name was then changed to Blaine, named after the Maine state senator at that time, James G. Blaine. A third name then replaced Blaine; named after a bonanza farm, the town became known as Clarke. Then, finally, the name became what it is today, Menoken.
Frandsen said other historial sites will draw people into the town. Landmarks such as the Menoken Indian Village, old businesses, churches and organizations. "The State Historical Society of North Dakota has been doing archaeological work the past few years, and it has been named one of the oldest fortified sites in the region," said Frandsen.
Another reason the town will attract a lot of attention for the celebration is because of the wide community support, said Frandsen. In recent years, the town has attracted people who work in Bismarck but still like the rural life. "It gives residents more space for hobby farms, and it's a rapid commute to Bismarck," she said.
For Menoken, their quasquicentennial is a time to celebrate the town's deep history and bring all the former and present residents together for a day of fun. "The celebration is like an old school reunion," said Ennan.
S Menoken wrote on Sep 18, 2008 4:41 PM:
Explainations were given for all the names except Menoken. "
Trivia Whiz wrote on May 14, 2008 11:25 AM:
Dave wrote on May 12, 2008 6:17 PM:
For more details, check our website: www.menokennd.com
If you have questions, please contact Dave Ennen, Quasquicentennial Chairman, at (701)673-3323 or e-mail: ennen44h@bektel.com
"
Marlys wrote on May 12, 2008 4:41 PM:
Full day of events:
Registration at Menoken School 8-9:30
Opening ceremony at Menoken Post Office at 9:30
Parade at 10
Afternoon and evening events at Menoken Picnic Grounds: registration continues, concessions, beer garden, games, music, pedal tractor pull, tug of war, horseshoe tournament, cavalry reenactment, dance
History book 116 pages and 400+ pictures
Souvenirs
Visit our website: www.menokennd.com
"
harpua wrote on May 12, 2008 7:49 AM:
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