Archives Month is being celebrated across the nation this October, with the North Dakota State Archives joining in to recognize the importance of preserving valuable historical information. As Halloween arrives, historic newspapers report on various spooky events happening in North Dakota. In 2019, the State Archives collected oral histories about Halloween traditions in the state, capturing memories of mischief, scares, and treats.
One narrator shared a story of tipping over outhouses with friends in their community, accidentally tipping one with a man inside and causing them to stop their antics. Another narrator recalled a tradition of scaring her grandparents with different costumes, always receiving a treat in return. A third narrator from Bismarck talked about their active Halloween neighborhood, where they set up elaborate yard decorations and engaged in playful hijinks each year.
These oral histories, available at the State Archives, offer a unique insight into the Halloween experiences of North Dakotans and help to preserve the traditions and memories associated with the holiday. As we celebrate Archives Month and Halloween, these stories bring us closer together and provide a deeper understanding of the history and customs surrounding this festive season. Dakota Datebook by Sarah Walker.
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Photo credit news.prairiepublic.org