Barnes County

Barnes County is a county in North Dakota that covers rolling prairie and farmland with the Sheyenne River running through its center. The region contains small towns and rural communities that define its character and layout.

The territory legislature created this county in 1872 under a different name, then renamed it in 1874 after a judge. This early establishment reflects the expansion that occurred during the region's settlement period.

The county maintains several educational institutions, including Barnes County North Public School District 7 and Valley City Public School District 2.

Multiple highways and state roads connect the small towns and allow travel throughout the county. The landscape is mostly flat to gently rolling, which makes driving through the region straightforward.

Since 1896, Barnes County has demonstrated a consistent pattern of voting alignment with the North Dakota statewide presidential election winner.

Location: North Dakota

Inception: January 4, 1873

Capital city: Valley City

Shares border with: Griggs County, Steele County, Cass County, Ransom County, LaMoure County, Stutsman County

Website: http://barnescounty.us

GPS coordinates: 46.93000,-98.07000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:59