Diamond Jubilee

On June 4-10, 1950, Fargo celebrated the 75th anniversary of its incorporation. In the photgraph above (courtesy of David Smith), we can see Broadway bedecked for celebration. The Diamond Jubilee included many special events.

On June 4-10, 1950, Fargo celebrated the 75th anniversary of its incorporation. The Diamond Jubilee included many special events.

A huge historical pageant-spectacle that included a cast of hundreds, scenic and lighting effects and fireworks was held every night at the Red River Valley Fair Grounds.

Johnny Olsen and the ABC network radio show broadcast every morning from NDAC (NDSU) Field house. Thousands of dollars in prizes were given away.

The Fargo Manufacturer's show open daily at the Auditorium.

As part of the celebration, downtown merchants wore period costumes and offered many sales, including giving away wooden nickels.

In the photograph to the right is the staff of the J.J. Newberry 5-10¢ store which was located adjacent and south of the Black Building. Pictured in pioneer clothes are the staff of the store with manager Bob Moseman kneeling in front.

As part of the celebration, the Broadway Merchants Association (also known during the celebration as the "Broadway Bandits") sponsored "Brothers of the Brush." This was a contest for the best beard.

The picture above was a vacant lot south of the Fargo Theater. (Later it was blacktopped and made into a parking lot.)

The Sioux Indians in this and the picture below were from the Devil's Lake reservation.

The city of Fargo sponsored several street dances during the week. The entire city took part in celebrating its heritage.

The photograph above shows a close-up of the people seen in the previous photo. George Nasif is passing the peace pipe and Robert Moseman is kneeling behind the pipe.