The Bismarck North Dakota Temple was the first temple built in both North Dakota and the Dakotas. Since its dedication in 1999, it has blessed members across a vast region by dramatically reducing the travel required to participate in temple worship. Though modest in size, the temple has had a profound impact on Latter-day Saints throughout the northern Great Plains.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Bismarck North Dakota Temple on July 29, 1998 as part of the Church's effort to build smaller temples closer to members around the world. Groundbreaking took place on October 17, 1998, and less than a year later, President Hinckley dedicated the temple on September 19, 1999, making it the 61st dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During the public open house, more than 10,000 visitors toured the temple before its dedication.
Before the temple was built, many members in the region traveled extraordinary distances to attend the temple. Some members from Grand Forks drove nearly 16 hours to Chicago, while others traveled to Cardston, Alberta, or Denver. The Bismarck Temple brought these sacred blessings much closer to home for thousands of faithful Saints.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Bismarck North Dakota Temple holds a special place in Church history as the first temple built in the Dakotas. Its construction represented a significant milestone for members living in one of the most geographically spread-out temple districts in North America.
The temple features a beautiful granite veneer imported from Québec and a single spire topped with the angel Moroni. Although the building is one of the Church's smaller temples at just 10,700 square feet, it includes two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry, allowing members to receive all temple ordinances close to home.
Another fascinating piece of history is that President Gordon B. Hinckley's visit to dedicate the temple marked his first-ever trip to North Dakota. After traveling to countries around the world during his lifetime, North Dakota was the final U.S. state he had never visited until the temple dedication.
Visiting the Temple
The temple is located at 2930 Cody Drive in north Bismarck. Although there is no visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or distribution center on site, the peaceful grounds provide a welcoming place to pause and reflect. The temple's simple design and beautifully maintained landscaping create a peaceful atmosphere that complements the quiet beauty of North Dakota.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in North Dakota.
- First temple built in the Dakotas.
- 61st dedicated temple of the Church.
- Announced on July 29, 1998.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on September 19, 1999.
- Approximately 10,700 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- President Gordon B. Hinckley's first visit to North Dakota was for the temple's dedication.
Final Thoughts
The Bismarck North Dakota Temple is a beautiful reminder that even members living far from large population centers can enjoy the blessings of temple worship close to home. Its history reflects the faith and dedication of Latter-day Saints who sacrificed for years to attend the temple, making its completion an unforgettable milestone for the region.
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