North Dakota, USA Is a Must Visit State

The land that is called North Dakota used to be inhabited by people who did farming and hunting for their livelihood. The horse came to this land in the 18th century, making hunting a little easier.

The first registered visitor was a French man who entered the Missouri River from Canada in 1738 AD, in search of a water route to Pacific Ocean followed by many more in 1742 AD. Lots of Wars took place between the French, British and Spanish people until 1763 when all lands occupied by the French were handed over to the British. However the British lost control over the land after 1800 AD and whole of this land fell into American hands in 1818 AD.

Most of the locals shifted to Canada when they came to know that this land belonged to Americans in 1828. During the early 19th century life was peaceful among the traders, military and explorers.

Local Indians became influential in fur trade. They traded fur with guns, metal tools and cloth. Confrontations did take place between them and Euro-Americans in later half of the 19th century. Eventually the locals surrendered before the American Army. From 1879 to 1886 major towns sprang up, pushing further its development. Many immigrants like Europeans, Arabs, black Africans and Indians landed here in huge numbers from all parts of the world. Chateau de Mores State Historic Site was built by French in 1883. It shows a meat-packing plant (now Chimney Park). All original buildings and a museum are located here. A military post was established at Fort Abercrombie State Historic Site which guarded the Red River traffic from 1857 to 1877. It now has a museum, video room and other renovated structures.

Ford Buford State Historic Site was created to guard and as a major supply depot in 1866. It depicts many historic things. One of the oldest structure built by the Euro-Americans is the Gingras Trading Post State Historic Site. It has some old fur trading related objects are exhibited here.

Located near Kulm, Whitestone Hill Battlefield State Historic Site has two museums, picnic areas and many recreational activities can be done here. The Dakota Zoo is the largest in the state. It has 500 reptiles, birds and hundreds of mammals of different species. These can be seen by boarding a train that takes you through out the Zoo.

Opening time of the Zoo are from 25th April to 30 September from 10am to 8pm and weekends of October from 1pm to 5pm (weather permitting). Placed between Atlantic and Pacific coasts The International Peace Garden is on the world's most protected border. This garden is spread over 2300 acres on both sides of America-Canada border.