Preserving Our Past. Educating Our Future
Prairie Village Museum preserves and shares the history of north-central North Dakota while creating educational experiences that connect the past with the future. Through historic buildings, regional collections, school programs, family activities, and community events, we help people understand how earlier generations shaped the communities we know today.
Why This Museum Matters
A museum’s value is not measured only by what it preserves, but by what people learn, experience, and carry forward.
Preserving Rural History
Our historic buildings, artifacts, photographs, and records preserve the experiences of the people who built communities across north-central North Dakota. Without active preservation, much of this history could be permanently lost.
Creating Educational Experiences
School tours, family activities, exhibits, and hands-on programs help visitors understand how agriculture, transportation, technology, immigration, and everyday life shaped the region.
Strengthening Our Community
Prairie Village Museum provides a place for residents and visitors to gather, learn, volunteer, and celebrate. The museum also supports tourism and helps tell Rugby’s story to people from across the country.
Our Reach at a Glance
31
Buildings & Exhibit Halls
Thousands
of Artifacts Preserved
3,650
Annual Admissions
850
Students Welcomed Through School Tours
15
Active Volunteers
Since 1965
Preserving Our Regional History
Attendance and participation figures reflect the museum’s most recent completed season.
Protecting the Museum's Future
Caring for 31 buildings and exhibit halls is a significant responsibility for a small rural nonprofit. Admission revenue alone cannot cover the cost of preserving historic structures, caring for collections, improving accessibility, and developing meaningful educational experiences.
Our Priorities Include:
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Preserving Historic Buildings
Stabilizing, repairing, and maintaining structures before damage becomes irreversible. -
Improving Safety and Accessibility
Creating safer, more accessible walkways and visitor spaces throughout the museum grounds. -
Strengthening Collections Care
Improving documentation, storage, and stewardship of thousands of regional artifacts. -
Expanding Educational Opportunities
Developing exhibits and programs that connect history with agriculture, technology, innovation, and everyday life.
Strategic partnerships and community support will help ensure that Prairie Village Museum remains a valuable educational and cultural resource for generations to come.