text:
Acadia

Acadia (Acadie) was a colony of New France in northeastern North America which included parts of what are now the Maritime provinces, the Gaspé Peninsula and Maine to the Kennebec River.

The population of Acadia included the various indigenous First Nations that comprised the Wabanaki Confederacy, the Acadian people and other French settlers.

The first capital of Acadia was established in 1605 as Port-Royal. Soon after, English forces of Captain Argall, an English ship's captain employed by the Virginia Company of London attacked and burned down the fortified habitation in 1613. A new centre for Port-Royal was established nearby, and it remained the longest-serving capital of French Acadia until the British siege of Port Royal in 1710. There were six colonial wars in a 74-year period in which British interests tried to capture Acadia, starting with King William's War in 1689.

French troops from Quebec, Acadians, the Wabanaki Confederacy, and French priests continually raided New England settlements along the border in Maine during these wars. Acadia was conquered in 1710 during Queen Anne's War, while New Brunswick and much of Maine remained contested territory. Prince Edward Island (Île Saint-Jean) and Cape Breton (Île Royale) remained under French control, as agreed under Article XIII of the Treaty of Utrecht.

The English took control of Maine by defeating the Wabanaki Confederacy and the French priests during Father Rale's War. During King George's War, France and New France made significant attempts to regain mainland Nova Scotia. The British took New Brunswick in Father Le Loutre's War, and they took Île Royale and Île Saint-Jean in 1758 following the French and Indian War. The territory was eventually divided into British colonies.

The term Acadia today refers to regions of North America that are historically associated with the lands, descendants, or culture of the former region. It particularly refers to regions of the Maritimes with Acadian roots, language, and culture, primarily in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, the Magdalen Islands and Prince Edward Island, as well as in Maine.

"Acadia" can also refer to the Acadian diaspora in southern Louisiana, a region also referred to as Acadiana since the early 1960s. In the abstract, Acadia refers to the existence of an Acadian culture in any of these regions. People living in Acadia are called Acadians, which in Louisiana changed to Cajuns, the more common, rural American, name of Acadians.

Etymology
Explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano is credited for originating the designation Acadia on his 16th-century map, where he applied the ancient Greek name "Arcadia" to the entire Atlantic coast north of Virginia. "Arcadia" is derived from the Arcadia district in Greece, which had the extended meanings of "refuge" or "idyllic place". Henry IV of France chartered a colony south of the St. Lawrence River between the 40th and 46th parallels in 1603, and he recognized it as La Cadie. Samuel de Champlain fixed its present orthography with the r omitted, and cartographer William Francis Ganong has shown its gradual progress northeastwards to its resting place in the Atlantic provinces of Canada.

As an alternative theory, some historians suggest that the name is derived from the indigenous Canadian Miꞌkmaq language, in which Cadie means "fertile land".

Territory
During much of the 17th and early 18th centuries, Norridgewock on the Kennebec River and Castine at the end of the Penobscot River were the southernmost settlements of Acadia. The French government defined the borders of Acadia as roughly between the 40th and 46th parallels on the Atlantic coast.

The borders of French Acadia were not clearly defined, but the following areas were at some time part of French Acadia :
 * Present-day Nova Scotia, with Port Royal as its capital. Lost to Great Britain in 1713.
 * Present-day New Brunswick, which remained part of Nova Scotia until becoming its own colony in 1785. Lost to Great Britain in 1763.
 * Île-Royale, later Cape Breton Island, with the Fortress of Louisbourg. Lost to Great Britain in 1763.
 * Île Saint-Jean, later Prince Edward Island. Lost to Great Britain in 1763.
 * The part of present-day Maine east of the Kennebec River. Lost to Great Britain in 1763.

17th century
The history of Acadia was significantly influenced by the great power conflict between France and England, later Great Britain, that occurred in the 17th and 18th century. Prior to the arrival of Europeans, the Mi'kmaq had been living in Acadia for at least two to three thousand years. Early European settlers were French subjects primarily from the Poitou-Charentes and Aquitaine regions of southwestern France, now known as Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The first French settlement was established by Pierre Dugua de Mons, Governor of Acadia, under the authority of the French King, Henri IV, on Saint Croix Island in 1604. The following year, the settlement was moved across the Bay of Fundy to Port Royal after a difficult winter on the island and deaths from scurvy. There, they constructed a new habitation. In 1607, the colony received bad news as Henri IV revoked Sieur de Mons' royal fur monopoly, citing that the income was insufficient to justify supplying the colony further. Thus recalled, the last of the French left Port Royal in August 1607. Their allies, the Mi'kmaq, agreed to act as custodians of the settlement. When the former lieutenant governor, Jean de Biencourt de Poutrincourt et de Saint-Just, returned in 1610, he found the Port Royal habitation just as it was left.

During the first 80 years of the French presence in Acadia, there were numerous significant battles as the English, Scottish, and Dutch contested the French for possession of the colony. These battles happened at Port Royal, Saint John, Cap de Sable (present-day Port La Tour, Nova Scotia), Jemseg, Castine and Baleine.

From the 1680s onward, there were six colonial wars that took place in the region (see the French and Indian Wars as well as Father Rale's War and Father Le Loutre's War). These wars were fought between New England and New France, and their respective native allies. After the British siege of Port Royal in 1710, mainland Nova Scotia was under the control of British colonial government, but both present-day New Brunswick and virtually all of present-day Maine remained contested territory between New England and New France, until the treaty of Paris of 1763 confirmed British control over the region.

The wars were fought on two fronts: the southern border of Acadia, which New France defined as the Kennebec River in southern Maine and in present-day peninsular Nova Scotia. The latter involved preventing the British from taking the capital of Acadia, Port Royal (See Queen Anne's War), establishing themselves at Canso (See Father Rale's War) and founding Halifax (see Father Le Loutre's War).

Acadian Civil War
From 1640 to 1645, Acadia was plunged into what some historians have described as a civil war. The war was between Port Royal, where the Governor of Acadia Charles de Menou d'Aulnay de Charnisay was stationed, and present-day Saint John, New Brunswick, where Governor of Acadia Charles de Saint-Étienne de la Tour was stationed. There were four major battles in the war, and d'Aulnay ultimately prevailed over La Tour.

King Philip's War
During King Philip's War (1675–78), the governor was absent from Acadia (having first been imprisoned in Boston during the Dutch occupation of Acadia) and Jean-Vincent d'Abbadie de Saint-Castin was established at the capital of Acadia, Pentagouêt. From there he worked with the Abenaki of Acadia to raid British settlements migrating over the border of Acadia. British retaliation included attacking deep into Acadia in the Battle off Port La Tour (1677).

Wabanaki Confederacy
In response to King Philip's War in New England, the native peoples in Acadia joined the Wabanaki Confederacy to form a political and military alliance with New France. The Confederacy remained significant military allies to New France through six wars. Until the French and Indian War the Wabanaki Confederacy remained the dominant military force in the region.

Catholic missions
There were tensions on the border between New England and Acadia, which New France defined as the Kennebec River in southern Maine. English settlers from Massachusetts (whose charter included the Maine area) had expanded their settlements into Acadia. To secure New France's claim to Acadia, it established Catholic missions (churches) among the four largest native villages in the region: one on the Kennebec River (Norridgewock); one further north on the Penobscot River (Penobscot); one on the Saint John River (Medoctec); and one at Shubenacadie (Saint Anne's Mission).

King William's War
During King William's War (1688–97), some Acadians, the Wabanaki Confederacy and the French Priests participated in defending Acadia at its border with New England, which New France defined as the Kennebec River in southern Maine. Toward this end, the members of the Wabanaki Confederacy, on the Saint John River and in other places, joined the New France expedition against present-day Bristol, Maine (the siege of Pemaquid (1689)), Salmon Falls and present-day Portland, Maine.

In response, the New Englanders retaliated by attacking Port Royal and present-day Guysborough. In 1694, the Wabanaki Confederacy participated in the Raid on Oyster River at present-day Durham, New Hampshire. Two years later, New France, led by Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville, returned and fought a naval battle in the Bay of Fundy before moving on to raid Bristol, Maine, again.

In retaliation, the New Englanders, led by Benjamin Church, engaged in a Raid on Chignecto (1696) and the siege of the Capital of Acadia at Fort Nashwaak.

At the end of the war England returned the territory to France in the Treaty of Ryswick and the borders of Acadia remained the same.

Queen Anne's War
During Queen Anne's War, some Acadians, the Wabanaki Confederacy and the French priests participated again in defending Acadia at its border with New England. They made numerous raids on New England settlements along the border in the Northeast Coast Campaign and the famous Raid on Deerfield. In retaliation, Major Benjamin Church went on his fifth and final expedition to Acadia. He raided present-day Castine, Maine and continued with raids against Grand Pre, Pisiquid, and Chignecto. A few years later, defeated in the siege of Pemaquid (1696), Captain March made an unsuccessful siege on the Capital of Acadia, Port Royal (1707). British forces were successful with the siege of Port Royal (1710), while the Wabanaki Confederacy were successful in the nearby Battle of Bloody Creek (1711) and continued raids along the Maine frontier.

The 1710 conquest of the Acadian capital of Port Royal during the war was confirmed by the Treaty of Utrecht of 1713. The British conceded to the French "the island called Cape Breton, as also all others, both in the mouth of the river of St. Lawrence, and in the gulph of the same name", and "all manner of liberty to fortify any place or places there." The French established a fortress at Louisbourg, Cape Breton, to guard the sea approaches to Quebec.

On 23 June 1713, the French residents of Nova Scotia were given one year to declare allegiance to Britain or leave the region. In the meantime, the French signalled their preparedness for future hostilities by beginning the construction of Fortress Louisbourg on Île Royale, now Cape Breton Island. The British grew increasingly alarmed by the prospect of disloyalty in wartime of the Acadians now under their rule. French missionaries worked to maintain the loyalty of Acadians, and to maintain a hold on the mainland part of Acadia.

Dummer's War
During the escalation that preceded Dummer's War (1722–1725), some Acadians, the Wabanaki Confederacy and the French priests persisted in defending Acadia, which had been conceded to the British in the Treaty of Utrecht, at its border against New England. The Miꞌkmaq refused to recognize the treaty handing over their land to the English and hostilities resumed. The Miꞌkmaq raided the new fort at Canso, Nova Scotia in 1720. The Confederacy made numerous raids on New England settlements along the border into New England. Towards the end of January 1722, Governor Samuel Shute chose to launch a punitive expedition against Sébastien Rale, a Jesuit missionary, at Norridgewock. This breach of the border of Acadia, which had at any rate been ceded to the British, drew all of the tribes of the Wabanaki Confederacy into the conflict.

Under potential siege by the Confederacy, in May 1722, Lieutenant Governor John Doucett took 22 Miꞌkmaq hostage at Annapolis Royal to prevent the capital from being attacked. In July 1722, the Abenaki and Miꞌkmaq created a blockade of Annapolis Royal, with the intent of starving the capital. The natives captured 18 fishing vessels and prisoners from present-day Yarmouth to Canso. They also seized prisoners and vessels from the Bay of Fundy.

As a result of the escalating conflict, Massachusetts Governor Shute officially declared war on 22 July 1722. The first battle of Father Rale's War happened in the Nova Scotia theatre. In response to the blockade of Annapolis Royal, at the end of July 1722, New England launched a campaign to end the blockade and retrieve over 86 New England prisoners taken by the natives. One of these operations resulted in the Battle at Jeddore. The next was a raid on Canso in 1723. Then in July 1724 a group of sixty Miꞌkmaq and Maliseets raided Annapolis Royal.

As a result of Father Rale's War, present-day central Maine fell again to the British with the defeat of Sébastien Rale at Norridgewock and the subsequent retreat of the native population from the Kennebec and Penobscot rivers.

King George's War
King George's War began when the war declarations from Europe reached the French fortress at Louisbourg first, on May 3, 1744, and the forces there wasted little time in beginning hostilities. Concerned about their overland supply lines to Quebec, they first raided the British fishing port of Canso on May 23, and then organized an attack on Annapolis Royal, then the capital of Nova Scotia. However, French forces were delayed in departing Louisbourg, and their Miꞌkmaq and Maliseet allies decided to attack on their own in early July. Annapolis had received news of the war declaration, and was somewhat prepared when the Indians began besieging Fort Anne. Lacking heavy weapons, the Indians withdrew after a few days. Then, in mid-August, a larger French force arrived before Fort Anne, but was also unable to mount an effective attack or siege against the garrison, which had received supplies and reinforcements from Massachusetts. In 1745, British colonial forces conducted the siege of Port Toulouse (St. Peter's) and then captured Fortress Louisbourg after a siege of six weeks. France launched a major expedition to recover Acadia in 1746. Beset by storms, disease, and finally the death of its commander, the Duc d'Anville, it returned to France in tatters without reaching its objective. French officer Jean-Baptiste Nicolas Roch de Ramezay also arrived from Quebec and conducted the Battle at Port-la-Joye on Île Saint-Jean and the Battle of Grand Pré.

Father Le Loutre's War (1749–1755)
Despite the British capture of the Acadian capital in the siege of Port Royal (1710), Nova Scotia remained primarily occupied by Catholic Acadians and Miꞌkmaq. To prevent the establishment of Protestant settlements in the region, Miꞌkmaq raided the early British settlements of present-day Shelburne (1715) and Canso (1720). A generation later, Father Le Loutre's War began when Edward Cornwallis arrived to establish Halifax with 13 transports on 21 June 1749. The British quickly began to build other settlements. To guard against Miꞌkmaq, Acadian and French attacks on the new Protestant settlements, they erected fortifications in Halifax (Citadel Hill) (1749), Dartmouth (1750), Bedford (Fort Sackville) (1751), Lunenburg (1753) and Lawrencetown (1754). There were numerous Miꞌkmaq and Acadian raids on these villages such as the Raid on Dartmouth (1751).

Within 18 months of establishing Halifax, the British also took firm control of peninsular Nova Scotia by building fortifications in all the major Acadian communities: present-day Windsor (Fort Edward, 1750); Grand Pre (Fort Vieux Logis, 1749) and Chignecto (Fort Lawrence, 1750). (A British fort already existed at the other major Acadian centre of Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia. Cobequid remained without a fort.) Numerous Miꞌkmaq and Acadian raids took place against these fortifications, such as the siege of Grand Pre (1749).

Deportation of the Acadians
In the years after the British conquest, the Acadians refused to swear unconditional oaths of allegiance to the British crown. During this time period some Acadians participated in militia operations against the British and maintained vital supply lines to Fortress Louisbourg and Fort Beausejour. During the French and Indian War, the British sought to neutralize any military threat Acadians posed and to interrupt the vital supply lines Acadians provided to Louisbourg by deporting them.

This process began in 1755, after the British captured Fort Beauséjour and began the expulsion of the Acadians with the Bay of Fundy Campaign. Between six and seven thousand Acadians were expelled from Nova Scotia to the lower British American colonies. Some Acadians eluded capture by fleeing deep into the wilderness or into French-controlled Canada. The Quebec town of L'Acadie (now a sector of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu) was founded by expelled Acadians. After the siege of Louisbourg (1758), a second wave of the expulsion began with the St. John River Campaign, Petitcodiac River Campaign, Gulf of St. Lawrence Campaign and the Île Saint-Jean Campaign.

The Acadians and the Wabanaki Confederacy created a significant resistance to the British throughout the war. They repeatedly raided Canso, Lunenburg, Halifax, Chignecto and into New England.

Any pretense that France might maintain or regain control over the remnants of Acadia came to an end with the fall of Montreal in 1760 and the 1763 Treaty of Paris, which permanently ceded almost all of eastern New France to Britain. In 1763, Britain would designate lands west of the Appalachians as the "Indian Reserve", but did not respect Miꞌkmaq title to the Atlantic region, claiming title was obtained from the French. The Miꞌkmaq remain in Acadia to this day. After 1764, many exiled Acadians finally settled in Louisiana, which had been transferred by France to Spain as part of the Treaty of Paris which formally ended conflict between France and Great Britain over control of North America (the Seven Years' War, known as the French and Indian War in the United States),. The demonym Acadian developed into Cajun, which was first used as a pejorative term until its later mainstream acceptance.

Britain eventually moderated its policies and allowed Acadians to return to Nova Scotia. However, most of the fertile former Acadian lands were now occupied by British colonists. The returning Acadians settled instead in more outlying areas of the original Acadia, such as Cape Breton and the areas which are now New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Acadian Renaissance
Among the Acadian descendants in the Canadian Maritime provinces, there was a revival of cultural awareness which is recognized as an Acadian Renaissance, with a struggle for recognition of Acadians as a distinct group starting in the mid-nineteenth century. Some Acadian deputies were elected to legislative assemblies, starting in 1836 with Simon d'Entremont in Nova Scotia. Several other provincial and federal members followed in New Brunswick and in Prince Edward Island.

This period saw the founding of Acadian higher educational institutions: the Saint Thomas Seminary from 1854 to 1862 and then Saint Joseph's College from 1864, both in Memramcook, New Brunswick. This was followed by the founding of Acadian newspapers: the weekly Le Moniteur Acadien in 1867 and the daily L'Évangéline in 1887 (fr), named after the epic poem by Longfellow.

In New Brunswick the 1870s saw a struggle against the Common Schools Act of 1871, which imposed a non-denominational school system and forbade religious instruction during school hours. This led to widespread Acadian protests and school-tax boycotts, culminating in the 1875 riots in the town of Caraquet. Finally in 1875 a compromise was reached allowing for some Catholic religious teaching in the schools.

In the 1880s there began a series of Acadian national conventions. The first in 1881 adopted Assumption Day (Aug.15) as the Acadian national holiday. The convention favored the argument of the priest Marcel-François Richard (fr) that Acadians are a distinct people which should have a national holiday distinct from that of Quebec (Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day). The second convention in 1884 adopted other national symbols including the flag of Acadia designed by Marcel-François Richard, and the anthem Ave maris stella. The third convention in 1890 created the Société nationale L'Assomption to promote the interests of the Acadian people in the Maritimes. Other Acadian national conventions continued until the fifteenth in 1972.

In 1885, the author, historian and linguist Pascal Poirier became the first Acadian member of the Senate of Canada.

20th century and beyond
By the early twentieth century, some Acadians were chosen for leadership positions in New Brunswick. In 1912, Monseigneur Édouard LeBlanc of Nova Scotia was named bishop of Saint John, after a campaign lasting many years to convince the Vatican to appoint an Acadian bishop. In 1917, the premier of Prince Edward Island resigned to accept a judicial position, and his Conservative Party chose Aubin-Edmond Arsenault as successor until the next election in 1919. Arsenault thus became the first Acadian provincial premier of any province in Canada. In 1923, Peter Veniot became the first Acadian premier of New Brunswick when he was chosen by the Liberal Party to complete the term of the retiring premier until 1925.

The expansion of Acadian influence in the Catholic church continued in 1936 with the creation of the Archdiocese of Moncton whose first archbishop was Louis-Joseph-Arthur Melanson, and whose Cathédrale Notre-Dame de l’Assomption was completed in 1940. The new archdiocese was expanded to include new predominantly Acadian dioceses in Bathurst, New Brunswick (1938), in Edmundston (1944) and in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia (1953).

Government of Louis Robichaud
In 1960, Louis Robichaud became the first Acadian to be elected premier of a Canadian province. He was elected premier of New Brunswick in 1960 and served three terms until 1970.

The Robichaud government created the Université de Moncton in 1963 as a unilingual French-language university, corresponding to the much older unilingual English-language University of New Brunswick. In 1964, two different deputy ministers of education were named to direct English-language and French-language school systems respectively. In the next few years, the Université de Moncton absorbed the former Saint-Joseph's College, as well as the École Normale (teacher's college) which trained French-speaking teachers for the Acadian schools. In 1977, two French-speaking colleges in Northern New Brunswick were transformed into the Edmundston and Shippagan campuses of the Université de Moncton.

The New Brunswick Equal Opportunity program of 1967 introduced reforms of municipal structures, of health care, of education, and of the administration of justice. In general, these changes tended to reduce economic inequality between regions of the province, and therefore tended to favour the disadvantaged Acadian regions.

The New Brunswick Official Languages Act (1969) declared New Brunswick officially bilingual with English and French having equal status as official languages. Residents have the right to receive provincial government services in the official language of their choice.

After 1970
The New Brunswick government of Richard Hatfield (1970–87) cooperated with the Government of Canada in including the right to linguistic equality in the province as a part of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms of 1982, so that it cannot be rescinded by any future provincial government.

Nova Scotia adopted Bill 65 in 1981 to give Acadian schools legal status, and also created a study program including Acadian history and culture. The Acadian schools were placed under separate management in 1996.

Prince Edward Island provided French-language schools in 1980 in areas with a sufficient number of Acadian students, followed by a French-language school commission for the province in 1990. In 2000 a decision of the Supreme Court of Canada obliged the provincial government to build French schools at least in Charlottetown and Summerside, the two largest communities.

The new French-language daily newspaper L'Acadie Nouvelle published in Caraquet appeared in 1984, replacing L’Évangeline which ceased publication in 1982.

The series of Acadian National Conventions from 1881 to 1972 was followed by an Acadian National Orientation Convention in 1979 at Edmundston. Since 1994, there has been a new series of Acadian World Congresses at five-year intervals starting with 1994 in southeastern New Brunswick and 1999 in Louisiana. The most recent was centered in Summerside, Prince Edward Island in 2019.

Notable military figures of Acadia
The following list includes those who were born in Acadia (yet not necessarily of Acadian ethnicity) or those who became naturalized citizens prior to the fall of the French in the region in 1763. Those who came for brief periods from other countries are not included (e.g. John Gorham, Edward Cornwallis, James Wolfe, Boishébert, etc.).

Others

 * Charles de Saint-Étienne de la Tour – Civil War in Acadia
 * Chief Madockawando – King William's War
 * John Gyles – King William's War
 * Father Louis-Pierre Thury– King William's War
 * Pierre Maisonnat dit Baptiste – Queen Anne's War
 * Charles Morris (jurist) – King George's War
 * Pierre Maillard – Father Le Loutre's War
 * Joseph-Nicolas Gautier – Father Le Loutre's War
 * Pierre II Surette – French and Indian War

Government
Acadia was located in territory disputed between France and Great Britain. England controlled the area from 1621 to 1632 (see William Alexander, 1st Earl of Stirling) and again from 1654 until 1670 (see William Crowne and Thomas Temple), with control permanently regained by its successor state, the Kingdom of Great Britain, in 1710 (ceded under the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713). Although France controlled the territory in the remaining periods, French monarchs consistently neglected Acadia. Civil government under the French regime was held by a series of Governors (see List of governors of Acadia). The government of New France was located in Quebec, but it had only nominal authority over the Acadians.

The Acadians implemented village self-rule. Even after Canada had given up its elected spokesmen, the Acadians continued to demand a say in their own government, as late as 1706 petitioning the monarchy to allow them to elect spokesmen each year by a plurality of voices. In a sign of his indifference to the colony, Louis XV agreed to their demand. This representative assembly was a direct offshoot of a government system that developed out of the seigneurial and church parish imported from Europe. The seigneurial system was a "set of legal regimes and practices pertaining to local landholding, politics, economics, and jurisprudence." Many of the French Governors of Acadia prior to Hector d'Andigné de Grandfontaine held seigneuries in Acadia. As Seigneur, in addition to the power held as governor, they held the right to grant land, collect their seigneurial rents, and act in judgement over disputes within their domain. After Acadia came under direct Royal rule under Grandfontaine the Seigneurs continued to fulfill governance roles. The Acadian seignuerial system came to an end when the British Crown bought the seigneurial rights in the 1730s.

The Catholic parish system along with the accompanying parish priest also aided in the development Acadian self-government. Priests, given their respected position, often assisted the community in representation with the civil government located at Port Royal/Annapolis Royal. Within each parish the Acadians used the elected "marguilliers" (wardens) of the "conseil de fabrique" to administer more than just the churches' affairs in the Parishes. The Acadians extended this system to see to the administrative needs of the community in general. The Acadians protected this structure from the priests and were "No mere subordinates to clerical authority, wardens were "always suspicious of any interference by the priests" in the life of the rural parish, an institution which was, ..., largely a creation of the inhabitants." During the British regime many of the Deputies were drawn from this marguillier group.

The Acadians occupied a borderland region of the British and French empires. As such the Acadian homeland was subjected to the ravages of war on numerous occasions. Through experience the Acadians learned to distrust imperial authorities (British and French). This is evidenced in a small way when Acadians were uncooperative with census takers. Administrators complained of constant in-fighting among the population, which filed many petty civil suits with colonial magistrates. Most of these were over boundary lines, as the Acadians were very quick to protect their new lands.

Governance under the British after 1710
After 1710, the British military administration continued to utilize the deputy system the Acadians had developed under French colonial rule. Prior to 1732 the deputies were appointed by the governor from men in the districts of Acadian families "as ancientest and most considerable in Lands & possessions,". This appears to be in contravention of various British penal laws which made it nearly impossible for Roman Catholics and Protestant recusants to hold military and government positions. The need for effective administration and communication in many of the British colonies trumped the laws.

In 1732, the governance institution was formalized. Under the formalized system the colony was divided into eight districts. Annually on October 11 free elections were to take place where each district, depending on its size, was to elect two, three, or four deputies. In observance of the Lord's Day, if October 11 fell on a Sunday the elections were to take place on the immediately following Monday. Notice of the annual election was to be given in all districts thirty days before the election date. Immediately following election, deputies, both outgoing and incoming, were to report to Annapolis Royal to receive the governor's approval and instructions. Prior to 1732 deputies had complained about the time and expense of holding office and carrying out their duties. Under the new elected deputy system each district was to provide for the expenses of their elected deputies.

The duties of the deputies were broad and included reporting to the government in council the affairs of the districts, distribution of government proclamations, assistance in the settlement of various local disputes (primarily related to land), and ensuring that various weights and measures used in trade were "Conformable to the Standard".

In addition to deputies, several other public positions existed. Each district had a clerk who worked closely with the deputies and under his duties recorded the records and orders of government, deeds and conveyances, and kept other public records. With the rapid expansion of the Acadian populace, there was also a growing number of cattle and sheep. The burgeoning herds and flocks, often free-ranging, necessitated the creation of the position of Overseer of Flocks. These individuals controlled where the flocks grazed, settled disputes and recorded the names of individuals slaughtering animals to ensure proper ownership. Skins and hides were inspected for brands.

After the purchase by the British Crown of the seigniorial rights in Acadia, various rents and fees were due to the Crown. In the Minas, Piziquid and Cobequid Districts the seigniorial fees were collected by the "Collector & Receiver of All His Majesty's Quit Rents, Dues, or Revenues". The Collector was to keep a record of all rents and other fees collected, submit the rents to Annapolis Royal, and retain fifteen percent to cover his expenses.

Population
Before 1654, trading companies and patent holders concerned with fishing recruited men in France to come to Acadia to work at the commercial outposts. The original Acadian population was a small number of indentured servants and soldiers brought by the fur-trading companies.

Gradually, fishermen began settling in the area as well, rather than return to France with the seasonal fishing fleet. The majority of the recruiting took place at La Rochelle. Between 1653 and 1654, 104 men were recruited at La Rochelle. Of these, 31% were builders, 15% were soldiers and sailors, 8% were food preparers, 6.7% were farm workers, and an additional 6.7% worked in the clothing trades. Fifty-five percent of Acadia's first families came from western and southwestern France, primarily from Poitou, Aquitaine, Angoumois, and Saintonge. Over 85% of these (47% of the total), were former residents of the La Chaussée area of Poitou.

Many of the families who arrived in 1632 with Isaac de Razilly shared some blood ties; those not related by blood shared cultural ties with the others. The number of original immigrants was very small, and only about 100 surnames existed within the Acadian community.

Many of the earliest French settlers in Acadia intermarried with the local Mi'kmaq tribe.

A Parisian lawyer, Marc Lescarbot, who spent just over a year in Acadia, arriving in May 1606, described the Micmac as having "courage, fidelity, generosity, and humanity, and their hospitality is so innate and praiseworthy that they receive among them every man who is not an enemy. They are not simpletons. ... So that if we commonly call them Savages, the word is abusive and unmerited."

Most of the immigrants to Acadia were poor peasants in France, making them social equals in this new context. The colony had very limited economic support or cultural contacts with France, leaving a "social vacuum" that allowed "individual talents and industry ... [to supplant] inherited social position as the measure of a man's worth." Acadians lived as social equals, with the elderly and priests considered slightly superior.

Unlike the French colonists in Canada and the early English colonies in Plymouth and Jamestown, Acadians maintained an extended kinship system, and the large extended families assisted in building homes and barns, as well as cultivating and harvesting crops. They also relied on interfamily cooperation to accomplish community goals, such as building dikes to reclaim tidal marshes.

Marriages were generally not love matches but were arranged for economic or social reasons. Parental consent was required for anyone under 25 who wished to marry, and both the mother's and father's consent was recorded in the marriage deed. Divorce was not permitted in New France, and annulments were almost impossible to get. Legal separation was offered as an option but was seldom used.

The Acadians were suspicious of outsiders and on occasion did not readily cooperate with census takers. The first reliable population figures for the area came with the census of 1671, which noted fewer than 450 people. By 1714, the Acadian population had expanded to 2,528 individuals, mostly from natural increase rather than immigration. Most Acadian women in the 18th century gave birth to living children an average of eleven times. Although these numbers are identical to those in Canada, 75% of Acadian children reached adulthood, many more than in other parts of New France. The isolation of the Acadian communities meant the people were not exposed to many of the imported epidemics, allowing the children to remain healthier.

In 1714, a few Acadian families emigrated to Île Royale. These families had little property. But for the majority of Acadians, they could not be enticed by the French government to abandon their family lands for an area which was unknown and uncultivated.

Some Acadians migrated to nearby Île Saint-Jean (now Prince Edward Island) to take advantage of the fertile cropland. In 1732, the island had 347 settlers but within 25 years its population had expanded to 5000 Europeans. Much of the population surge on Île Saint-Jean took place in the 1750s, as Acadians left during the rising tensions on peninsular Nova Scotia after the settlement of Halifax in 1749. Le Loutre played a role in these removals through acts of encouragement and threats. The exodus to Île Saint-Jean became a flood with refugees fleeing British-held territory after the initial expulsions of 1755.

In contemporary Atlantic Canada, it is estimated that there are 300,000 French-speaking Acadians. In addition, there is a diaspora of over three million Acadian descendants in the world, primarily in the United States, in Canada outside the Atlantic region, and in France.

Economy
Most Acadian households were self-sufficient, with families engaged in subsistence farming only for a few years while they established their farms. Very rapidly the Acadians established productive farms that yielded surplus crops that allowed them to trade with both Boston and Louisbourg. Farms tended to remain small plots of land worked by individual families rather than slave labor. The highly productive dyked marshlands and cleared uplands produced an abundance of fodder that supported significant production of cows, sheep and pigs. Farmers grew various grains: wheat, oats, barley, hops and rye; vegetables: peas, cabbage, turnips, onions, carrots, chives, shallots, asparagus, parsnips and beets; fruit: apples, pears, cherries, plums, raspberry and white strawberry. In addition they grew crops of hemp and flax for the production of cloth, rope, etc.

From the rivers, estuaries and seas they harvested shad, smelts, gaspereau, cod, salmon, bass, etc., utilizing fish traps in the rivers, weirs in the inter-tidal zone and from the sea with lines and nets from their boats. The fishery was pursued on a commercial basis as in 1715 at the Minas Basin settlements, when the Acadian population there numbered only in the hundreds, they had "between 30 - 40 sail of vessels, built by themselves, which they employ in fishing" reported Lieutenant-Governor Thomas Caulfield to the Board of Trade. Charles Morris observed the Acadians at Minas hunting beluga whales. The Acadians also varied their diets by hunting for moose, hare, ducks and geese, and pigeon.

After 1630, the Acadians began to build dikes and drain the sea marsh above Port Royal. The high salinity of the reclaimed coastal marshland meant that the land would need to sit for three years after it was drained before it could be cultivated. The land reclamation techniques that were used closely resembled the enclosures near La Rochelle that helped make solar salt.

As time progressed, the Acadian agriculture improved, and Acadians traded with the British colonies in New England to gain ironware, fine cloth, rum, and salt. During the French administration of Acadia, this trade was illegal, but it did not stop some English traders from establishing small stores in Port Royal. Under English rule, the Acadians traded with New England and often smuggled their excess food to Boston merchants waiting at Baie Verte for transshipment to the French at Louisbourg on Cape Breton Island.

Many adult sons who did not inherit land from their parents settled on adjacent vacant lands to remain close to their families. As the Acadian population expanded and available land became limited around Port Royal, new settlements took root to the northeast, in the Upper Bay of Fundy, including Mines, Pisiquid, and Beaubassin. Many of the pioneers into that area persuaded some of their relatives to accompany them, and most of the frontier settlements contained only five to ten interrelated family units.

title: Acadia


text:
Population density

[[File:World population density 1994 - with equator.png|thumb|upright=2.05|Population density (people per square kilometre) map of the world in 1994.

In relation to the equator it is seen that the vast majority of human population lives in the Northern Hemisphere, where 67% of Earth's land area is.]]Population density (in agriculture: standing stock or plant density) is a measurement of population per unit land area. It is mostly applied to humans, but sometimes to other living organisms too. It is a key geographical term.

Biological population densities
Population density is population divided by total land area, sometimes including seas and oceans, as appropriate.

Low densities may cause an extinction vortex and further reduce fertility. This is called the Allee effect after the scientist who identified it. Examples of the causes of reduced fertility in low population densities are:
 * Increased problems with locating sexual mates
 * Increased inbreeding

Human densities

Population density is the number of people per unit of area, usually transcribed as "per square kilometer" or square mile, and which may include or exclude, for example, areas of water or glaciers. Commonly this is calculated for a county, city, country, another territory or the entire world.

The world's population is around 8,000,000,000 and the Earth's total area (including land and water) is 510,000,000 km2. Therefore, the worldwide human population density is approximately 8,000,000,000 ÷ 510,000,000 = 16 /km2. However, if only the Earth's land area of 150,000,000 km2 is taken into account, then human population density is 53 /km2. This includes all continental and island land area, including Antarctica. However, if Antarctica is excluded, then population density rises to over 58 /km2.

The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) has developed a suite of (open and free) data and tools named the Global Human Settlement Layer (GHSL) to improve the science for policy support to the European Commission Directorate Generals and Services and as support to the United Nations system. Several of the most densely populated territories in the world are city-states, microstates and urban dependencies. In fact, 95% of the world's population is concentrated on just 10% of the world's land. These territories have a relatively small area and a high urbanization level, with an economically specialized city population drawing also on rural resources outside the area, illustrating the difference between high population density and overpopulation.

Deserts have very limited potential for growing crops as there is not enough rain to support them. Thus, their population density is generally low. However, some cities in the Middle East, such as Dubai, have been increasing in population and infrastructure growth at a fast pace. Cities with high population densities are, by some, considered to be overpopulated, though this will depend on factors like quality of housing and infrastructure and access to resources. Very densely populated cities are mostly in Asia (particularly Southeast Asia); Africa's Lagos, Kinshasa, and Cairo; South America's Bogotá, Lima, and São Paulo; and Mexico City and Saint Petersburg also fall into this category. City population and especially area are, however, heavily dependent on the definition of "urban area" used: densities are almost invariably higher for the center only than when suburban settlements and intervening rural areas are included, as in the agglomeration or metropolitan area (the latter sometimes including neighboring cities).

In comparison, based on a world population of 8 billion, the world's inhabitants, if conceptualized as a loose crowd occupying just under 1 m2 per person (cf. Jacobs Method), would occupy an area of 8000 km2 a little less than the land area of Puerto Rico, 8868 km2.

Other methods of measurement
Although the arithmetic density is the most common way of measuring population density, several other methods have been developed to provide alternative measures of population density over a specific area.
 * Arithmetic density: The total number of people / area of land
 * Physiological density: The total population / area of arable land
 * Agricultural density: The total rural population / area of arable land
 * Residential density: The number of people living in an urban area / area of residential land
 * Urban density: The number of people inhabiting an urban area / total area of urban land
 * Ecological optimum: The density of population that can be supported by the natural resources
 * Living density: Population density at which the average person lives

Lists of entities by population density

 * List of Australian suburbs by population density
 * List of countries by population density
 * List of cities by population density
 * List of city districts by population density
 * List of English districts by population density
 * List of European Union cities proper by population density
 * List of islands by population density
 * List of states and territories of the United States by population density

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Population density


text:
Arnegard, North Dakota

Arnegard is a city in McKenzie County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 282 at the 2020 census. Arnegard was founded in 1913.

History
Arnegard was founded in 1906 and is named for brothers Evan Arnegard and Oscar Arnegard, the first homesteaders in the area. The first church was a one-room log cabin, the Wilmington Lutheran Church. It was so named because most of the people who founded Arnegard came from Spring Grove, Minnesota, where they belonged to the Old Wilmington Lutheran Church. The post office was established July 14, 1906 with Gerhard A. Stenehjem as postmaster. The town was incorporated in 1913 when the Great Northern Railroad extended its line past Watford City to Arnegard.

In 1914, the town built the Arnegard School, a one-story, four room school which taught grades 1 through 12. It opened on January 29, 1915. AS second story and rear annex was built in June 1936. Included were four more classrooms and a library on the second floor, and a gym and principal's office in the rear. The annex was torn down in 1954, and a much larger gym built. By then, the Arnegard Spuds basketball team was winning games throughout the state, and wrestlers too were winning awards. In 1961, the school won the State Class C Boys' Basketball Championship. The high school closed in 1963 due to declining enrollment, but elementary school classes continued to be held in the structure until 1976. McKenzie County donated the building to the city of Arnegard shortly thereafter, and it was used as a roller skating rink, town library, and meeting hall. By the early 1980s, the second floor was considered unsafe, and the building eventually closed. In 1998, local man Milton Hanson purchased the structure and completely renovated it. It was then operated as the "Old School Bed & Breakfast", and has been featured on HGTV's "If Walls Could Talk" and Prairie Public TV's "Old to New: Remodel, Restore, Revitalize". In 2015 it was sold, without the bell, and is no longer a bed and breakfast. Arnegard suffered a horrible fire on its Main Street in January 1959. Cleanup had barely begun when a second fire occurred in March. But by 1961, most of the structures on Main Street had been rebuilt.

Arnegard was founded with about 100 people living there, and it reached its peak population of 254 in 1930. The town weathered the Great Depression well enough, but by 1940 the population was down to just 222 (a loss of 12.5 percent). The population stayed relatively steady until 1960, but dropped by almost 40 percent to just 141 people in 1970. A brief surge in population during the 1970s oil boom (oil and natural gas deposits were found beneath McKenzie County about 1974), but the boom was followed by a bust in 1980 as drillers discovered that most of the oil was locked in shale which (at the time) could not be reached. By 1990, the population was 122, and by 2000 it was just 105. Arnegard has seen a small uptick in population in the 2000s attributable to the North Dakota Oil Boom.

On March 6, 2019, the city's two police officers were dismissed by the city council with Mayor Virginia Elliot breaking the tie vote. The officers had recently filed a grievance citing hostile work environment. The two council members who voted to dismiss had been previously charged with crimes by the officers, while Mayor Elliot was under investigation for various crimes at the time of the dismissal.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.25 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 115 people in 47 households, including 31 families, in the city. The population density was 460.0 PD/sqmi. There were 59 housing units at an average density of 236.0 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 97.4% White, 0.9% Native American, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.7%.

Of the 47 households 29.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.1% were married couples living together, 6.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.0% were non-families. 27.7% of households were one person and 6.4% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age was 41.3 years. 28.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 15.6% were from 25 to 44; 36.5% were from 45 to 64; and 10.4% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 58.3% male and 41.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 105 people in 44 households, including 23 families, in the city. The population density was 415.5 PD/sqmi. There were 60 housing units at an average density of 237.4 /sqmi. The racial makup of the city was 97.14% White, and 2.86% from two or more races.

Of the 44 households 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.0% were married couples living together, and 45.5% were non-families. 40.9% of households were one person and 31.8% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 3.46.

The age distribution was 31.4% under the age of 18, 4.8% from 18 to 24, 23.8% from 25 to 44, 20.0% from 45 to 64, and 20.0% 65 or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.7 males.

The median household income was $27,857 and the median family income was $37,188. Males had a median income of $27,500 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,831. There were no families and 1.1% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Notable person

 * Orville W. Hagen, 27th Lieutenant Governor of North Dakota

title: Arnegard, North Dakota


text:
Four Bears Village, North Dakota

Four Bears Village is a census-designated place (CDP) in McKenzie County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 500 at the 2020 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 1.0 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 364 people, 87 households, and 80 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 348.8 PD/sqmi. There were 90 housing units at an average density of 86.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 4.12% White, 93.96% Native American, and 1.92% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.02% of the population.

There were 87 households, out of which 65.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.5% were married couples living together, 36.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 8.0% were non-families. 6.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 1.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 4.18 and the average family size was 4.19.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 48.6% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 11.5% from 45 to 64, and 3.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 19 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 76.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $28,194, and the median income for a family was $26,250. Males had a median income of $29,125 versus $17,500 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $7,681. About 35.7% of families and 31.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 38.0% of those under age 18 and 50.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is within New Town Public Schools.

title: Four Bears Village, North Dakota


text:
Mandaree, North Dakota

Mandaree (Hidatsa: Adixoodagoorahareesh) is a census-designated place (CDP) in McKenzie County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 596 at the 2010 census.

Mandaree is located on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation. It was founded in 1954 as a home for those displaced by the rising backwaters of the Garrison Dam. The name was suggested by a Catholic missionary on the reservation and is a portmanteau of the names of the three tribes: MANdan, HiDAtsa, and REE, another name for the Arikara.

Mandaree is the primary physical center of the Mandan-Hidatsa community. It is noted nationally for its annual Pow-wow, held the second weekend in July, as well as for being the home of the Mandaree Singers, a tribal musical group.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 11.2 sqmi, of which 11.2 sqmi is land and 0.09% is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 558 people, 132 households, and 119 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 50.0 PD/sqmi. There were 151 housing units at an average density of 13.5/sq mi (5.2/km2). The racial makeup of the CDP was 3.05% White, 95.88% Native American, 0.18% from other races, and 0.90% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.97% of the population.

There were 132 households, out of which 59.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 34.1% were married couples living together, 40.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 9.8% were non-families. 8.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 4.23 and the average family size was 4.31.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 48.7% under the age of 18, 9.9% from 18 to 24, 23.8% from 25 to 44, 13.1% from 45 to 64, and 4.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 18 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.2 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $24,167, and the median income for a family was $22,500. Males had a median income of $19,688 versus $17,604 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $6,179. About 33.9% of families and 35.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 38.9% of those under age 18 and 51.4% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Mandaree Public School District #36 is made up of Mandaree Elementary School and Mandaree High School. Both schools are funded by the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) and the state of North Dakota. The teams are called the "Mandaree Warriors" and "Lady Warriors."

The Crestwood Maagarishda Center, which includes a Head Start center, opened in 2019. The cost was $2.3 million.

Notable people

 * Former tribal chairman Tex G. Hall
 * 1986-1990 Tribal Chairman--Edward Lone Fight

title: Mandaree, North Dakota


text:
Rawson, North Dakota

Rawson is a now-unincorporated farm community in McKenzie County, North Dakota, United States. It has two streets: Main Street, one mile north of the combined state highways 85 and 200, at Main's intersection with First Avenue. The population was 6 at the 2000 census. Rawson was founded in 1913 and incorporated, and attained the status of a small rural town. The government of Rawson was dissolved in 2002, Mail was then sent to Alexander.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.2 sqmi, all land. The land is fertile and flat, and used for farming.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 6 people, 2 households, and 2 families residing in the city. The population density was 24.5 people per square mile (9.3/km$2$). There were 7 housing units at an average density of 28.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 2 households, out of which 50.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, and 100.0% were married couples living together. The average household size was 3.00 and the average family size was 3.00.

In the city the population was spread out, with 33.3% under the age of 18, 33.3% from 25 to 44, 33.3% from 45 to 64. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 50 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $16,250, and the median income for a family was $16,250. Males had a median income of $0 versus $0 for females. The per capita income for the city was $5,467. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line. Farming is the sole occupation of the population; there are no other businesses or services.

title: Rawson, North Dakota


text:
Watford City, North Dakota

Watford City (Hidatsa: abaʔaruʔush), founded in 1914, is a city in and the county seat of McKenzie County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 6,207 at the 2020 census, making it the 13th most populous city in North Dakota. Because Watford City is part of the Bakken field, the North Dakota oil boom has significantly increased population and construction since the 2010 census.

The main offices of Frontier Energy Group, First International Bank, and the headquarters of McKenzie Electric Cooperative are in Watford City. The local newspaper is the McKenzie County Farmer.

History
In 1913, a few prospective businessmen located on the townsite of the future Watford City in anticipation of the arrival of the first Great Northern Railroad train. The Northern Land and Townsite Company, a division of the Great Northern, platted the town and sold lots in June 1914. Building began immediately, and many businesses and homes were moved from Schafer, which eventually became a ghost town. Watford was incorporated in June 1915, and was named by Vaughan G. Morris (1879–1940) for his hometown of Watford, Ontario. A year later the town added "City" to its name to differentiate itself from Wolford in Pierce County.

The Great Northern planned to extend its line to New Rockford and in 1914 began building the "Madson Grade," one of the longest dirt filled railroad grades in the country about a mile west of town. Two years later the grade was ninety feet high and nearly a mile long, but the project was abandoned shortly before the United States entered World War I.

Village officers were elected in 1915, and they concerned themselves with such tasks as impounding stray horses and cattle, prohibiting swine and chickens from town, locating hitching posts, and removing hay stacks from Main Street. The town had a band and baseball team from its founding. A school and several churches were also constructed almost immediately. During the Great Depression, a water and sanitary system was completed using labor mostly paid by the Public Works Administration.

In 1940, Watford City won a hotly contested campaign for county seat, defeating Alexander and Arnegard and taking the prize from Schafer. At first there was difficulty finding suitable office space, and a recently constructed hospital was sold to the county for use as a courthouse. A new hospital was dedicated in 1952. Watford City Air Force Station (formally Alexander) was opened nearby in 1979.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 9.056 sqmi, of which 8.977 sqmi is land and 0.079 sqmi is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 census, there were 6,207 people, 2,449 households, and 1,390 families residing in the city. The population density was 691.4 PD/sqmi. There were 3,512 housing units. The racial makeup of the city was 73.7% White, 2.4% African American, 2.0% Native American, 2.2% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 9.6% from some other races and 10.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 18.7% of the population. 29.2% of residents were under the age of 18, 10.5% were under 5 years of age, and 7.4% were 65 and older.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, there were 1,744 people, 733 households, and 445 families living in the city. The population density was 1243.4 PD/sqmi. There were 873 housing units at an average density of 623.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.6% White, 0.1% African American, 3.4% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.3% from other races, and 1.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.9%.

Of the 733 households 30.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.7% were married couples living together, 7.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.3% were non-families. 34.7% of households were one person and 15.7% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age was 40.2 years. 24.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.6% were from 25 to 44; 26.8% were from 45 to 64; and 17.8% were 65 or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.1% male and 48.9% female.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 1,435 people, 619 households, and 378 families living in the city. The population density was 964.8 PD/sqmi. There were 790 housing units at an average density of 531.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.91% White, 0.21% African American, 3.83% Native American, 0.07% Asian, and 0.98% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.11% of the population.

Of the 619 households 28.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.9% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.8% were non-families. 37.5% of households were one person and 22.0% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.22 and the average family size was 2.91.

The age distribution was 24.8% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 20.4% from 25 to 44, 24.8% from 45 to 64, and 24.3% 65 or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.8 males.

The median household income was $29,688 and the median family income was $36,850. Males had a median income of $32,250 versus $21,193 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,084. About 9.8% of families and 12.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.0% of those under age 18 and 13.9% of those age 65 or over.

Transportation
Northwest Dakota Public Transit provides dial-a-ride transit in the city. The service, run by the Williston Council for the Aging, operates weekdays from 7:30am-4:00pm and 5:00pm-9:00pm for a $3 fare.

Education

 * Watford City Elementary School
 * Watford City High School

Sites of interest

 * Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Unit)
 * Maah Daah Hey Trail
 * McKenzie County Heritage Park
 * Long X Trading Post Visitor Center
 * Pioneer Museum of McKenzie County

Climate
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Watford City has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps. The wettest time of year is late spring to early summer; winter is the driest season. Temperature variation between seasons is significant.

title: Watford City, North Dakota


text:
Benedict, North Dakota

Benedict is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 68 at the 2020 census. Benedict was founded in 1906.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.25 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 66 people, 32 households, and 18 families residing in the city. The population density was 264.0 PD/sqmi. There were 35 housing units at an average density of 140.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.5% White, 1.5% African American, and 3.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.0% of the population.

There were 32 households, of which 25.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.8% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.8% were non-families. 37.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.06 and the average family size was 2.67.

The median age in the city was 47 years. 21.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.1% were from 25 to 44; 30.3% were from 45 to 64; and 24.2% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 40.9% male and 59.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 53 people, 22 households, and 13 families residing in the city. The population density was 210.7 PD/sqmi. There were 27 housing units at an average density of 107.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100% White.

There were 22 households, out of which 27.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.1% were married couples living together, 4.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.4% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 2.79.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 18.9% under the age of 18, 5.7% from 18 to 24, 22.6% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 32.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 120.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 104.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $32,188, and the median income for a family was $10,625. Males had a median income of $36,250 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the city was $22,303. There were 40.0% of families and 21.9% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 50.0% of those over 64.

title: Benedict, North Dakota


text:
Butte, North Dakota

Butte is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 70 at the 2020 census. Butte was founded in 1906.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.25 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 68 people, 40 households, and 17 families residing in the city. The population density was 272.0 PD/sqmi. There were 84 housing units at an average density of 336.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 40 households, of which 7.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.5% were married couples living together, and 57.5% were non-families. 55.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 25% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.70 and the average family size was 2.59.

The median age in the city was 60.3 years. 10.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 2.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 17.7% were from 25 to 44; 32.3% were from 45 to 64; and 36.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 55.9% male and 44.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 92 people, 50 households, and 25 families residing in the city. The population density was 366.7 PD/sqmi. There were 82 housing units at an average density of 326.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.91% White and 1.09% African American.

There were 50 households, out of which 22.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.0% were married couples living together, and 50.0% were non-families. 48.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 32.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.84 and the average family size was 2.60.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 16.3% under the age of 18, 4.3% from 18 to 24, 23.9% from 25 to 44, 22.8% from 45 to 64, and 32.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 114.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 126.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $21,250, and the median income for a family was $29,688. Males had a median income of $29,375 versus $15,938 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,826. There were 7.4% of families and 13.7% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 23.1% of those over 64.

title: Butte, North Dakota


text:
Coleharbor, North Dakota

Coleharbor is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 59 at the 2020 census. Coleharbor was founded in 1904.

History
Coleharbor was laid out in 1904 when the railroad was extended to that point. The name combines that of a Soo Railroad official (W. A. Cole) and a reference to an older site on the Missouri River a few miles to the southwest (Coal Harbor). In July 2006, three storms converged above the town, unleashing a derecho that resulted in significant damage around town, even blowing down part of the former school building (made of brick), while leaving the nearby grain elevator intact.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.19 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 79 people, 37 households, and 22 families residing in the city. The population density was 415.8 PD/sqmi. There were 51 housing units at an average density of 268.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.2% White, 2.5% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.1% of the population.

There were 37 households, of which 27.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.4% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.5% were non-families. 32.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.77.

The median age in the city was 47.5 years. 20.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 20.3% were from 25 to 44; 35.4% were from 45 to 64; and 20.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 55.7% male and 44.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 106 people, 42 households, and 30 families residing in the city. The population density was 581.2 PD/sqmi. There were 56 housing units at an average density of 307.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.11% White, 0.94% Native American, and 0.94% from two or more races.

There were 42 households, out of which 31.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.3% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.2% were non-families. 21.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.52 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.5% under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 26.4% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 130.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 113.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $33,750, and the median income for a family was $40,313. Males had a median income of $27,000 versus $13,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,845. There were 6.9% of families and 12.1% of the population living below the poverty line, including 15.4% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Climate
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Coleharbor has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

title: Coleharbor, North Dakota


text:
Garrison, North Dakota

Garrison is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 1,462 at the 2020 census.

History
Garrison was laid out in 1905 when the Soo Line Railroad was extended to that point. The town took its name from Garrison Creek. A post office has been in operation at Garrison since 1903.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.38 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,453 people, 654 households, and 378 families living in the city. The population density was 1052.9 PD/sqmi. There were 737 housing units at an average density of 534.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.3% White, 0.1% African American, 4.5% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 2.1% of the population.

There were 654 households, of which 21.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.2% were married couples living together, 5.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.2% were non-families. 37.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.09 and the average family size was 2.74.

The median age in the city was 51.3 years. 18.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18.7% were from 25 to 44; 26.8% were from 45 to 64; and 30.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.1% male and 52.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,318 people, 590 households, and 362 families living in the city. The population density was 941.5 PD/sqmi. There were 655 housing units at an average density of 467.9/sq mi (180.6/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 95.37% White, 2.43% Native American, 0.15% Asian, 0.23% from other races, and 1.82% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 0.83% of the population.

There were 590 households, out of which 21.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.0% were married couples living together, 6.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.6% were non-families. 36.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 22.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.08 and the average family size was 2.64.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 18.0% under the age of 18, 4.2% from 18 to 24, 19.1% from 25 to 44, 23.2% from 45 to 64, and 35.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 52 years. For every 100 females, there were 77.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 77.8 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,843, and the median income for a family was $37,583. Males had a median income of $29,943 versus $15,729 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,591. About 6.5% of families and 8.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.1% of those under age 18 and 9.1% of those age 65 or over.

Airport
Garrison Municipal Airport is a public airport located one mile (1.6 km) west of the central business district of Garrison. It is owned by the Garrison Municipal Airport Authority. It covers an area of 205 acre which contains two runways, a 13/31 with a 3,700 by 60 ft (1,128 x 18 m) asphalt surface and a 3/21 with a 2,900 by 120 ft (884 x 37 m) turf surface. For the 12-month period ending July 31, 2007, the airport had 4,220 aircraft operations: 95% general aviation, 5% air taxi, and less than 1% military.

Attractions

 * Fort Stevenson State Park
 * Fort Stevenson State Park Arboretum
 * Garrison Golf Course

title: Garrison, North Dakota


text:
Max, North Dakota

Max is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 331 at the 2020 census. Max was founded in 1906.

History
Before 1906, rumors were circulating that the Soo Line would lay track close to Elbow Lake, north of Garrison, to obtain water for their steam engines. On this prospect, enterprising businessmen swiftly began staking claims in anticipation of purchasing prime real estate in a new town. A haphazard shack-building boom ensued on the surrounding ambling prairies. On August 8, 1906, a surveyor named J.G. Sheldrick filed a certificate to plat what would become the Max townsite on a grid.

The Soo Line came from the south and would have east and west branches at a junction to be named "Junction" or "Junction City". However, people started calling it Max's Post Office, after Max Freitag, eldest son of Paul Freitag. Paul Freitag was a local farmer and the first postmaster. Max asked people he met at the junction if they were coming to "his" post office to pick up their mail. The name, truncated to simply Max, stuck (in habit, if not officially). When the town was later moved two miles west to the present townsite, the name was changed officially to Max.

The Central Light and Power Company installed street lights in January 1918.

In 1947, Max decided to fully incorporate, with affairs managed by an elected mayor, and aldermanic council of four.

In the early 1950s, the town obtained a new telephone system, updated fire equipment, waterworks, water mains and a sewerage system.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.78 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 334 people, 141 households, and 90 families residing in the city. The population density was 428.2 PD/sqmi. There were 164 housing units at an average density of 210.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.3% White, 2.7% Native American, and 3.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.3% of the population.

There were 141 households, of which 29.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.2% were married couples living together, 5.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.2% were non-families. 30.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.37 and the average family size was 2.89.

The median age in the city was 37.7 years. 24.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.5% were from 25 to 44; 27.6% were from 45 to 64; and 13.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.6% male and 49.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 278 people, 129 households, and 74 families residing in the city. The population density was 362.3 PD/sqmi. There were 150 housing units at an average density of 195.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.68% White, 1.44% Native American, 1.44% Asian, and 1.44% from two or more races.

There were 129 households, out of which 28.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.8% were married couples living together, 7.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.6% were non-families. 40.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 27.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.16 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.9% under the age of 18, 5.8% from 18 to 24, 21.9% from 25 to 44, 25.2% from 45 to 64, and 21.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.7 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $27,321, and the median income for a family was $31,375. Males had a median income of $26,250 versus $16,563 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,640. About 10.8% of families and 17.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.8% of those under the age of 18 and 21.0% of those 65 or over.

Local politics
Jodi Gullickson, the mayor of Max preceding current mayor Richard Seklecki, faced an unsuccessful effort to recall her in a special election held in April 2007. The recall election followed several resignations in Max's government in late 2006.

title: Max, North Dakota


text:
Mercer, North Dakota

Mercer is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 88 at the 2020 census.

Mercer was founded in 1905 along a now-abandoned branch line of the Northern Pacific Railway extending from Carrington to Turtle Lake. The name comes from William Henry Harrison Mercer, a well known rancher in the Missouri River Valley for many years and for whom Mercer County is also named.

Geography
The city of Mercer lies on North Dakota Highway 200 between Underwood and McClusky.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.23 sqmi, of which 0.22 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

Demographics
Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Wrought-Iron Cross Site, in or near Mercer, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 94 people, 48 households, and 24 families residing in the city. The population density was 427.3 PD/sqmi. There were 58 housing units at an average density of 263.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.9% White, 1.1% Asian, and 1.1% from two or more races.

There were 48 households, of which 25.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.7% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 50.0% were non-families. 43.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 29.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.96 and the average family size was 2.71.

The median age in the city was 53.5 years. 22.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.9% were from 25 to 44; 30.9% were from 45 to 64; and 31.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 51.1% male and 48.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 86 people, 49 households, and 22 families residing in the city. The population density was 398.2 PD/sqmi. There were 56 housing units at an average density of 259.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.00% White.

There were 49 households, out of which 18.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.7% were married couples living together, 4.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 55.1% were non-families. 55.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 32.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.76 and the average family size was 2.59.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 16.3% under the age of 18, 2.3% from 18 to 24, 20.9% from 25 to 44, 29.1% from 45 to 64, and 31.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 51 years. For every 100 females, there were 75.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 71.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $28,750, and the median income for a family was $46,250. Males had a median income of $48,125 versus $15,000 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,937. There were 25.0% of families and 25.3% of the population living below the poverty line, including 23.5% who were under eighteen and 34.8% who were over 64.

title: Mercer, North Dakota


text:
Riverdale, North Dakota

Riverdale is a town in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 223 at the 2020 census.

Riverdale was the largest of the construction camps that sprang up in 1946 to house workers building the Garrison Dam just to the west. After the dam was completed in 1953, residents of the other camps (including Dakota City and Big Bend) who decided to stay on relocated to Riverdale. It was operated by the federal government from its establishment until 1986, when it was turned over to the state of North Dakota with incorporation following shortly thereafter.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.35 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 205 people, 103 households, and 67 families residing in the city. The population density was 151.9 PD/sqmi. There were 188 housing units at an average density of 139.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 94.6% White, 2.9% Native American, 2.0% Asian, and 0.5% from two or more races.

There were 103 households, of which 11.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.2% were married couples living together, 2.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 1.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.0% were non-families. 30.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.40.

The median age in the city was 56.2 years. 9.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 14.6% were from 25 to 44; 48.7% were from 45 to 64; and 23.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 50.7% male and 49.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 273 people, 108 households, and 84 families residing in the city. The population density was 195.1 PD/sqmi. There were 157 housing units at an average density of 112.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.34% White, 2.20% Native American, 0.73% Asian, and 0.73% from two or more races.

There were 108 households, out of which 27.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 75.9% were married couples living together, 0.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.3% were non-families. 19.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 2.86.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 22.7% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 21.6% from 25 to 44, 31.5% from 45 to 64, and 19.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 113.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $48,333, and the median income for a family was $52,250. Males had a median income of $50,972 versus $27,500 for females. The per capita income for the city was $18,970. None of the families and 3.8% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 5.7% of those over 64.

Climate
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Riverdale has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

Education
Riverdale High School was closed in the 1980s and consolidated with the high school in nearby Underwood, North Dakota.

Sports
The high school athletic teams were named the Knights and the school colors were red and white. The school fielded a nine-man football team. The team played local nine-man teams including Stanton, Goodrich, White Shield, Halliday, McClusky and Bowdon.

title: Riverdale, North Dakota


text:
Ruso, North Dakota

Ruso is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, in the USA. The population was 1 at the 2020 census, making Ruso the least populous incorporated place in North Dakota. It is tied with Monowi, Nebraska at being the least populated community in the United States that is currently inhabited.

History
Ruso was founded and named on July 17, 1906 and named either after a Russian word meaning "south of us" or from the first two letters in both of the words "South Russia" by an agent who brought in immigrants from Russia. The city was incorporated on July 7, 1909.

The city lost its last business in 1956.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of about 0.25 sqmi, all of which is land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 census, there were 1 person, 3 households, and 3 families residing in the city. There were 4 housing units.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, there were 4 people, 3 households, and 1 family residing in the city. The population density was 16.0 PD/sqmi. There were 3 housing units at an average density of 12.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 100.0% White.

There were 3 households, of which one was a married couples living together and the other two single people living alone. 66.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 33.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.33 and the average family size was 2.00.

The median age in the city was 58.5 years. 0.0% of residents were under the age of 18; 0.0% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 0.0% were from 25 to 44; 75% were from 45 to 64; and 25% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 75.0% male and 25.0% female.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 6 people, 3 households, and 3 families residing in the city. The population density was 23.9 people per square mile (9.3/km$2$). There were three housing units at an average density of 11.9 per square mile (4.6/km$2$). The racial makeup of the city was 100% White.

There were three households, out of which none had children under the age of 18 living with them, and 100% were married couples living together. The average household size was two and the average family size was two.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 33.3% from 25 to 44, 33.3% from 45 to 64, and 33.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 58 years. There were three males and three females.

The median income for a household in the city was $41,250, and the median income for a family was $41,250. The per capita income for the city was $21,050. None of the population and none of the families were below the poverty line.

title: Ruso, North Dakota


text:
Kathleen Kennedy

Kathleen Kennedy may refer to:

 * Kathleen Cavendish, Marchioness of Hartington (1920–1948), born Kathleen Kennedy, sister of U.S. President John F. Kennedy
 * Kathleen Kennedy, maiden name of Kathleen Kennedy Townsend (born 1951), Maryland politician and daughter of Robert F. Kennedy
 * Kathleen Kennedy (producer) (born 1953), American film producer

title: Kathleen Kennedy


text:
Turtle Lake, North Dakota

Turtle Lake is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 542 at the 2020 census. Turtle Lake was founded in 1905.

Geography and climate
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.52 sqmi, of which 0.51 sqmi is land and 0.01 sqmi is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 581 people, 278 households, and 159 families residing in the city. The population density was 1139.2 PD/sqmi. There were 340 housing units at an average density of 666.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.5% White, 0.3% African American, 2.1% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.2% of the population.

There were 278 households, of which 19.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.2% were married couples living together, 6.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 2.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.8% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 24.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.65.

The median age in the city was 52.1 years. 17.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 18% were from 25 to 44; 28.8% were from 45 to 64; and 30.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 49.2% male and 50.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 580 people, 290 households, and 171 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,154.2 PD/sqmi. There were 329 housing units at an average density of 654.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.79% White, 0.86% Native American, 0.17% Asian, and 0.17% from two or more races.

There were 290 households, out of which 18.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.4% were married couples living together, 2.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.7% were non-families. 38.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 25.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.97 and the average family size was 2.57.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 16.4% under the age of 18, 2.9% from 18 to 24, 22.4% from 25 to 44, 24.8% from 45 to 64, and 33.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 52 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $26,618, and the median income for a family was $36,667. Males had a median income of $32,917 versus $17,417 for females. The per capita income for the city was $16,848. About 2.3% of families and 5.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.4% of those under age 18 and 7.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Turtle Lake, North Dakota


text:
Underwood, North Dakota

Underwood is a city in McLean County, North Dakota, United States. The population was 784 at the 2020 census.

History
Underwood was founded along a Soo Line Railroad line between Bismarck and Max in 1903 and named after Fred D. Underwood, vice president of the railroad at the time. Alon Wieland, businessman and politician, was born in Underwood.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.91 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 778 people, 326 households, and 211 families living in the city. The population density was 854.9 PD/sqmi. There were 377 housing units at an average density of 414.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.5% White, 0.3% African American, 1.8% Native American, 0.3% Pacific Islander, 0.1% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.6% of the population.

There were 326 households, of which 22.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.1% were married couples living together, 4.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 35.3% were non-families. 30.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.22 and the average family size was 2.77.

The median age in the city was 49.8 years. 18.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23% were from 25 to 44; 32.9% were from 45 to 64; and 21.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.5% male and 51.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 812 people, 323 households, and 229 families living in the city. The population density was 910.8 PD/sqmi. There were 381 housing units at an average density of 427.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.80% White, 1.11% Native American, and 2.09% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.25% of the population.

There were 323 households, out of which 27.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.9% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.8% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.85.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.9% under the age of 18, 6.0% from 18 to 24, 20.7% from 25 to 44, 29.6% from 45 to 64, and 22.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 46 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.4 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $35,250, and the median income for a family was $47,578. Males had a median income of $39,375 versus $18,611 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,916. About 7.1% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 19.8% of those under age 18 and 14.4% of those age 65 or over.

Climate
This climatic region is typified by large seasonal temperature differences, with warm to hot (and often humid) summers and cold (sometimes severely cold) winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Underwood has a humid continental climate, abbreviated "Dfb" on climate maps.

Education
Underwood Public School serves the community.

title: Underwood, North Dakota