BISMARCK, N.D. – A barn near Hettinger has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The National Register of Historic Places is the federal government’s list of properties it considers worthy of preservation and recognition. North Dakota nominations are coordinated by the State Historical Society of North Dakota.

The Andrew Erickson Barn near Hettinger is a common barn used for both dairy and beef cattle. Built in 1952, the barn has a low concrete sidewall with a gothic-arched roof. As was common with most barns, the Erickson barn also housed family celebrations. The barn is an excellent example of its type and attests to trends in the development of agriculture in North Dakota.                                           

Contrary to some misconceptions about the National Register program, listing in it does not prevent owners from altering their property, restrict the use or sale of the property, or require establishing times that the property must be open to the public. Entry into the National Register of Historic Places does give a property prestige, provides protection from adverse effects in federally assisted projects, and provides eligibility for certain preservation financial incentives.

For more information, contact the State Historic Preservation Office at 701.328.2089.