Jamestown Commemorates 85th Anniversary of 164th Infantry's WWII Departure

Two-day living history event at historic courthouse honors North Dakota National Guard's wartime service and home front contributions.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse State Historic Site and the 164th Infantry Remembrance Association will host a special World War II living history weekend on February 28-March 1 to mark the 85th anniversary of the 164th Infantry's departure from North Dakota. The free, public event will feature reenactors, interactive demonstrations, and programs highlighting the experiences of service members and the home front efforts that supported the war effort.

Why it matters

This event commemorates an important milestone in North Dakota's history, honoring the sacrifices made by the 164th Infantry and the communities that supported them during World War II. It also serves as part of the broader ND250 commemoration celebrating the country's 250th birthday.

The details

The two-day event will take place at the historic 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse in Jamestown. Reenactors and living historians will present interpretive programs and interactive demonstrations, focusing on both military life and the home front contributions. In addition to the military portrayals, the event will highlight the ways communities supported the war effort, with women and civilian interpreters sharing their stories.

  • The event will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • The 164th Infantry departed North Dakota 85 years ago in 1941 to prepare for World War II.

The players

1883 Stutsman County Courthouse State Historic Site

A historic courthouse site managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota, hosting the commemorative event.

164th Infantry Remembrance Association

An organization dedicated to honoring the legacy of the 164th Infantry, a North Dakota National Guard unit that served in World War II.

Coca-Cola Bottling Company High Country–Jamestown

A local Coca-Cola bottler that has donated 8-ounce glass bottles of Coca-Cola for the first 100 guests.

Barnes County Historical Society

A historical society representing Valley City, which has been designated as North Dakota's American World War II Heritage City.

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What they’re saying

“This event commemorates an important milestone in North Dakota's history, honoring the sacrifices made by the 164th Infantry and the communities that supported them during World War II.”

— Stephan Zacharias, Outreach Coordinator (NewsDakota.com)

What’s next

The 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse State Historic Site and the 164th Infantry Remembrance Association will continue to host educational programs and events throughout the year to honor North Dakota's World War II history and legacy.

The takeaway

This commemorative event highlights the enduring importance of preserving and sharing the stories of North Dakota's military service members and the communities that supported them during times of war. By honoring the sacrifices of the past, the event helps to inspire a deeper appreciation for the state's rich history and the resilience of its people.