Bill of Rights Discussion to be Held at Barnes County Museum

Associate Professor Dr. Alex Jorgensen to speak on the history and significance of the Bill of Rights

Feb. 7, 2026 at 12:55pm

The Barnes County Historical Society Lecture Series is hosting a discussion on the Bill of Rights on February 12th at the Barnes County Museum in Valley City, North Dakota. The talk will be led by Dr. Alex Jorgensen, an Associate Professor of Political Science at Valley City State University, who will review the origins of the Bill of Rights, how they have been challenged over time, and their continued relevance today.

Why it matters

The Bill of Rights is a foundational part of the U.S. Constitution that has shaped the balance of power between the federal government and states, as well as the rights of individuals. As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, examining the history and ongoing debates around the Bill of Rights is an important civic exercise.

The details

The lecture is part of the 'What In the World?' series hosted by the Barnes County Historical Society in partnership with Valley City State University. Dr. Jorgensen, who also serves on the Barnes County Historical Museum board, will discuss how the first 10 amendments to the Constitution were added to address fears of a too-powerful central government and enshrine individual liberties.

  • The lecture will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM.
  • This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

The players

Dr. Alex Jorgensen

An Associate Professor of Political Science in the Social Science Department at Valley City State University, and a member of the Barnes County Historical Museum board.

Barnes County Historical Society

The organization hosting the lecture series in partnership with Valley City State University.

Valley City State University

The university collaborating with the Barnes County Historical Society on the lecture series.

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What they’re saying

“A bill of rights is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth, general or particular, and what no just government should refuse, or rest on inference.”

— Thomas Jefferson

What’s next

The lecture is free and open to the public. For more information, interested attendees can contact Wes Anderson at the Barnes County Historical Society.

The takeaway

This discussion on the history and significance of the Bill of Rights comes at a pivotal time, as the country reflects on its founding principles and the ongoing debates around the balance of power between the federal government and states, as well as individual liberties.