Upcoming events

Switch to Calendar View

• 3rd Annual Founders Day Trivia Event

  • When
    May 18, 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM
  • Location
    Laughing Sun Brewing (1023 E Front Ave, Bismarck)

  Come celebrate Bismarck's Founding at our 3rd annual Founders Day Bismarck Trivia Night on Monday, May 18.  Doors open at 5pm and trivia starts at 6:30pm.

  The Bismarck Historical Society will host a local history themed trivia game in partnership with the Laughing Sun Brewery.  This is a dine-to-donate fundraiser and 20% of food and drink sales from 5pm to close will be donated to the Bismarck Historical Society if you show them this event on your phone or flyer.

  Trivia starts at 6:30pm and teams are limited to 1-6 players, with a prize for the winning team.  You do not have to be a Bismarck Historical Society member to participate in this fundraiser.  You do not even need to play to support our cause.  Grab your friends and family, enjoy some BBQ, and help support our organization!

  We hope to see you there!

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Fort Abraham Lincoln and the Great Sioux War

  • When
    June 10, 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM
  • Location
    Meeting Room A (Bismarck Public Library, 515 N 5th St)

  This presentation by Austin Glant examines the critical years leading to the Battle of the Little Bighorn through the lens of Fort Abraham Lincoln and its garrison. Tracing the post’s history from its 1872 construction to the 7th Cavalry’s departure in May 1876, the session explores the geopolitical causes of the Great Sioux War and the fort’s strategic role in the conflict. Attendees will gain insight into the rigorous winter preparations of 1875–76, the Dakota Column’s route into Montana, and figures who shaped and took part in these events including George A. Custer, Sitting Bull, General Alfred Terry, the scout Bloody Knife, President Ulysses S. Grant, Major Marcus Reno, riverboat captain Grant Marsh, and others.

  Program is free and open to the general public.

  
  

  Show details
• Celebrate America's 250th birthday!

  • When
    July 04, 2026

  The Bismarck Historical Society has no program scheduled for this month but does invite you to participate in the events that will be held in Bismarck and throughout the state during our nation's 250th birthday celebration.

  Link to some of the events: North Dakota's Celebration of America's 250th

  Show details
• South Capitol Neighborhood

  • When
    August 12, 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM
  • Location
    Meeting Room A (Bismarck Public Library, 515 N 5th St)

  Program will be presented by Emily Sakariassen-Jackson.  More information will be forthcoming.

  Show details
• Bismarck Chautauqua 250

  • When
    September 09, 2026
  • Location
    Bismarck State College

  Chautauqua event will feature Sarah Campbell and York historians. More details will be forthcoming including exact time and location on the BSC campus.

  Show details
• Program by Susan Wefald

  • When
    October 14, 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM
  • Location
    Meeting Room A (Bismarck Public Library, 515 N 5th St)

  Program will be presented by Susan Wefald.   More information will be forthcoming.

  Show details
• Bismarck Historical Society Annual Meeting

  • When
    November 12, 2026
  • Location
    Bismarck Eagles Club (313 N 26th St, Bismarck)

  As time draws closer to the annual meeting date, watch your mail for a member invitation and our Facebook page for more information on this special society event.

  Show details
• Andrew Carnegie and the Bismarck Public Library

  • When
    December 09, 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM
  • Location
    Meeting Room A (Bismarck Public Library, 515 N 5th St)

  Join Kate Waldera as she delves into the life of Andrew Carnegie and the important part he played in the creation of the Bismarck Public Library.

  Library history sources: History of the Bismarck Public Library 

  Show details