Old Sanish Townsite

Old Sanish Townsite. . Established in 1914 on the east bank of the Missouri River, the village of Sanish was named after the Arikara world meaning real or friendly people. This area was also called "Old Crossing" by the early Indians because of the great buffalo herds that crossed here on their annual migrations. The photo above, taken in 1930 shows the Verendrye Bridge, in upper left corner. which was completed in 1927. Sanish became an important grain and livestock shipping center in the midst of a large agriculture area. , In its heyday, over 450 people lived in Sanish, operating 54 different businesses. The town was officially abandoned on April 29, 1953, when water began to fill the reservoir behind the newly constructed Garisson Dam. Although the town of "New" Sanish was established, most residents from Sanish and the inundated communities of Elbowoods, and Van Hook relocated to the present day community of New Town. Many buildings fro these three towns were relocated to New Town as well. , During periods of low water, foundations of the Sanish grain elevators may be seen in Sanish Bay and the prominent hills emerge as islands. , , The areal photo was taken in 1953. It shows both Old Sanish and "New" Sanish as well as the Verendrye Bridge crossing the Missouri River. Four Bears Bridge is under construction in this photo (lower left). Crow Flies High Butte Historic Site can be seen as a small loop road to the northeast of Four Bridges, and straight south of the original railroad depot.