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History & Noteworthy

The Very Beginning

Garrison, North Dakota sprung up in 1905 and organized as a village in 1907. The original town was founded by the Taylor Brothers, Cecil and Theodore in 1903. The post office was established June 17, 1903. Later, when the Soo Line ran its tracks farther north, the town moved to its present location. Garrison is seated just six miles off Highway 83 between Minot and Bismarck and sits just a few miles north of beautiful Lake Sakakawea.

Business flourished in the early years. The early leaders saw Garrison as a town "bustin’ at the seams" with gun totin’ rascals. Fortunately for decades to come, the West was tamed and homes and businesses grew into a solid community.  Currently, Garrison boasts many businesses, offering residents and guests the best a small town can offer, right here at home.

Garrison was long considered the Agricultural Gateway City because it was situated in the heart of rich farmland, available at low prices. In 1914-1915 it was considered the largest primary wheat shipping point and was incorporated as a city in 1916.

After 100 years, Garrison remains a great place to be! Whether you’re returning for a summer visit … considering a chance to come fish or hunt … or thinking about finding a new home, this is a community that comes together to meet your expectations.


Noteworthy Recognition

Walleye Capitol of the World
Beautiful Lake Sakakawea provides abundant fishing opportunities right out Garrison's backdoor.  With Wally the Walleye, the designation of Walleye Capitol of the World came into inception.  Many communities are claiming this title, but Garrison is sure to get you hooked!

Christmas Capitol of North Dakota
Enjoy a stroll down Main Street during the three weekend annual Dickens Village Festival.  A transformation into a Victorian Village is just the start of why Garrison has earned this title.

2018 Main Street ND Excellence Award
Garrison was the recipient of the 2018 Main Street Excellence Award in our population category for truly finding creative ways to add vibrancy and investing in our own bright future.  We are proud to be a first year recipient of the Governor's Award.

City of the Year: 2007 & 2016
The ND League of Cities recognized Garrison as the City of the Year both in 2007 & 2016.  The award was established to recognize ND Cities for the quality, number, and progressiveness of activities undertaken in the community.

And some have even recognized us as being the: Best Small Town in ND, Prettiest town in ND, Quirkiest town in ND - just to name a few.  Come & see for yourself!