The History of Bismarck

Early Settlement

The original settlement in this area lay just west of present-day Bismarck, where the Hubbard Trail crossed the North Fork of the Vermilion River. Founded in 1837 and originally named Franklin, the town lasted only a few years. In 1843, brothers John and Samuel Myers built a mill near the old Franklin site, and a new town called Myersville grew up around it.

The Railroad and a New Name

In 1872, the C&EI Railroad came through the area. The tracks bypassed Myersville, running a mile and a half to the east, and over time the town gradually shifted toward the rail line onto land donated by Charles S. Young and Dr. John B. Holloway.

Charles S. Young named the new town Bismarck after the German statesman and chancellor Otto von Bismarck, whom he so admired.

A 125-Year Celebration

On September 13, 1997, the community marked its 125th birthday. The festivities drew about 2,000 people and included a parade, contests, historical exhibits at the local grade school, and multiple performances.

Incorporation

In 1998, the Village of Bismarck was officially incorporated. Its first village board consisted of Mayor Eleanor White, along with Julie Boersma, Pat Kentner, Chuck Mockbee, Lyle Milner, Diane Holycross, Don Evans, Alvina Van Pelt, and Betty Lewis.