Bonanzaville Interpretive Center

West Fargo, North Dakota

he new Northern Plains History Center at Bonanzaville will transform the Cass County Historical Society’s 12 acre site into a regional educational resource, encouraging visitors of all ages to understand and appreciate the rich history of America’s Northern plains. To create a 21st century visitor destination and museum facility, leadership of the Historical Society is undertaking a two-phase $12 million capital and endowment campaign. Phase I seeks to raise $6.5 million in capital funds for the expansion and preservation and has already raised $2.4 million. Phase II has a $4 million capital goal. At the same time, leadership will raise $3 million to create the Northern Plains Endowment Fund.

The centerpiece of the Campaign will be construction of the Lucien Barnes Pavilion. The Pavilion will house state-of-the-art galleries, climate-controlled research facilities, flexible education spaces, and modern visitor amenities. Site Planning and preservation efforts will ensure the well-being and longevity of the historic buildings and collections. Expanded living history programs and educational partnerships will offer the community a 12 month, indoor/outdoor experience – opening a doorway to the past through which generations of future visitors can travel.