Manfred in Wells County, North Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Historic Manfred Then and Now
An Authentic Settlers' Community Celebrating Rural America
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, June 28, 2024
1. Historic Manfred Then and Now Marker
Early Manfred historian Sennev Nertrost Whipple wrote, It was the coming of the Soo Line Railroad that brought home seekers to Wells County. During the survey of the railroad it was determined that this part of the James River would be suitable as a water stop for the steam engines to take on water. In 1893, this railroad set up the water stop, and in no time the land was spoken for by settlers rushing to file homestead claims.
In the spring of 1894, Manfred burst into existence with homesteaders streaming into the area. Manfred served the surrounding farming region. The last elevator closed in about 2010. Today, the legacy of rural America is honored here with Manfred serving as an example of the many communities such as this that helped form our country. Welcome to Manfred where history is shared right where the history took place!
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Railroads & Streetcars • Settlements & Settlers. A significant historical year for this entry is 1894.
Location. 47° 41.623′ N, 99° 44.857′ W. Marker is in Manfred, North Dakota, in Wells County. It is at the intersection of
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in North Dakota’s Drift Prairie. It is also in the American Lewis & Clark Corridor, on the prairies, and on the Northern Plains. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once Ruperts Land and also the Louisiana Purchase.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Le Grand's Addition (here, next to this marker); West Side of Main Avenue (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Soo Line Railroad at Manfred (about 400 feet away); Manfred Lake on the James River (about 400 feet away); Lake Avenue Neighborhood (about 400 feet away); North Side of Elevator Street (about 500 feet away); The Elevators of Manfred (about 500 feet away); Central Office and Neighborhood (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all
Courtesy Manfred Heritage Museum
2. Marker detail: Manfred in 1907
Also see . . . Manfred History (Manfred History and Preservation, Inc.).
Excerpt: In the early 1890s, the Manfred area was settled primarily by immigrants from Europe who were seeking a better way of life. Through determination, those early pioneers built their homesteads and found life in the Manfred area to be good.(Submitted on July 18, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.)In 2000, preservation efforts were begun, to safeguard the history for future generations. In 2017, Manfred Historic District was honored to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places as an excellent example of an agricultural town that showcases both the rise and decline that was common of rural towns. Visitors are invited to come experience for themselves this delightful small town America!
Courtesy Manfred Heritage Museum
3. Marker detail: Manfred in 2017
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, June 28, 2024
4. Historic Manfred Then and Now Marker
Looking west through the intersection. Lake View Drive (County Road 4) is on the right and Railway Street is on the left.
Photographed by Cosmos Mariner, June 28, 2024
5. Welcome to Manfred Established 1894
Credits. This page was last revised on July 18, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 15, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida. This page has been viewed 8 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on July 18, 2026, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.
