United States Customs House and Post Office - Pembina, North Dakota

The United States Customs House and Post Office in Pembina, North Dakota, is a significant historical landmark that dates back to 1877.

It was built to serve as a customs house, post office, and court house for the Red River Valley.

The building's design is a mix of Second Empire and Italianate styles, with a distinctive mansard roof.

This unique architectural style was a deliberate choice to reflect the building's role as a symbol of American expansion into the region.

A fresh viewpoint: United States House Transportation Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation

Pembina is a region with a rich history, situated at the extreme northeastern corner of North Dakota. It's known for being the first European settlement, organized church, school, post office, border/customs house, and homestead within present state borders.

The region has been remote and sparsely inhabited for much of its history. Native people occupied the area on a seasonal basis, utilizing resources such as the high bush cranberry for which Pembina is reputed to have been named.

For another approach, see: History of United States Postage Rates

Pembina's recorded history is closely tied with Canada. Prehistorically, Pembina's earliest residents were nomadic people who traveled in and out of the region from all directions.

Many of Pembina's earliest permanent settlers came from Canada or were involved with Canadian-American trade operations. After the Treaty of Ghent established the 49th parallel as the boundary between Canada and the United States, Pembina became a gateway of commerce between the two countries in the 1800s.

Today, Pembina continues to serve as a port of entry between Canada and North Dakota.

The region's unique geography has played a significant role in its history. Pembina is located at the confluence of the Pembina and Red rivers, which serves as a natural boundary between North Dakota and Minnesota.

The City of Pembina was a small but significant community in the late 19th century. Located in the Dakota Territory, it was a major stopover for travelers and traders.

Pembina was situated near the border with Canada, making it a key point for the fur trade and other commercial activities. The city's strategic location also made it an important stop for the United States Customs House and Post Office.

The city's population was small, with around 200 residents in the 1870s. Despite its small size, Pembina played a significant role in the region's economy and history.

If this caught your attention, see: Crown City Post Office