August 3, 2023

Kittson Cabin Rededication Set for Aug. 19 at Walhalla State Historic Site

WALHALLA, N.D. – The public is invited to the rededication of the Kittson cabin Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Walhalla State Historic Site. The cabin was disassembled last fall following best historic preservation practices, with careful removing, numbering, and storage of every log. Some logs were salvaged, while others needed to be replaced in-kind. This spring the cabin was reassembled.

At this free event, tour the cabin and grounds and participate in lawn games including cornhole, bocce ball, and others. Lemonade, watermelon, and cookies will be served. Enjoy a day in the park.

The rededication ceremony and ribbon cutting will start at 11 a.m. Architectural historian and former president of the State Historical Board Steve Martens and lead carpenter Blake Kobiela will provide talks following the ceremony.

"This vital link to North Dakota history is preserved for future generations," said Site Supervisor Jeff Blanchard. "Careful conservation ensures that this example of a rare construction style will endure for many years to come."

The Kittson cabin, dating to 1852, is one of the oldest surviving buildings in North Dakota. It is a rare existing example of Métis Red River Frame construction, a style in which the horizontal logs forming the walls slot into upright corner posts. This cabin was built by fur trader Norman Kittson as a warehouse to supply ox carts traveling to St. Paul and likely Winnipeg. It stood in the predominantly Métis community of St. Joseph, now downtown Walhalla. By 1899, the cabin was being used as a stable for the Bellevue Hotel. In 1904, the Pembina County Old Settlers' Association disassembled and moved the cabin to its current location in Walhalla.

For more information, contact Jeff Blanchard at 701.825.6840. Walhalla State Historic Site is managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota and is located two blocks southwest of the intersection of ND Highway 32 and County 55 in Walhalla. Find upcoming State Historical Society events at history.nd.gov/events.

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CONTACT
Jeff Blanchard, 701.825.6840

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