Tower City, North Dakota

Welcome to the official website for Tower City, North Dakota. Nestled along the Interstate 94 corridor where Cass County and Barnes County meet, Tower City is a proud small community with a rich history, strong values, and a welcoming spirit that has defined life here for nearly a century and a half. Whether you are a lifelong resident, a newcomer to the area, or a traveler passing through on your way across the North Dakota prairie, we invite you to learn more about what makes Tower City a wonderful place to call home.

A Rich Railroad Heritage

Tower City was founded in 1879 as a stop along the Northern Pacific Railroad, one of the great rail lines that opened the northern Great Plains to settlement and commerce. The city takes its name from Charlemagne Tower, a prominent railroad official whose influence helped shape the early development of communities across the Dakota Territory. A post office was established that same year, and Tower City was officially incorporated in 1881. From its earliest days, the city served as a gathering point for farmers, merchants, and families building new lives on the prairie. That pioneering spirit remains at the heart of our community today. You can explore more about the full history of Tower City on our dedicated history page.

Community and Education

Tower City is home to Maple Valley High School, the centerpiece of the Maple Valley Public School District, which serves students from Tower City, Buffalo, Fingal, and Oriska. Since the fall of 2018, all district students attend a single K-12 facility right here in Tower City, creating a close-knit educational environment where students receive personal attention and strong community support. Maple Valley offers athletics including volleyball and basketball, music programs, and one-act play, and partners with neighboring school districts in Enderlin and Valley City for additional academic and athletic opportunities. The school's parent-teacher organization and Maple Valley Parents Group are active supporters of student activities and community events throughout the year.

Parks, Recreation, and the Great Outdoors

Tower City offers residents and visitors a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. The city park features playground equipment, open green space, and gathering areas perfect for family picnics and community events. During the winter months, ice skating is a popular pastime for families and children. Tower City is also proudly known as the Home of the North Dakota State Horse Pull, an annual tradition that draws competitors and spectators from across the state. For those looking to explore beyond the city limits, Valley City Park and the Bjornson Park Public Golf Course are just sixteen miles away, and Lake Ashtabula offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping in a scenic natural setting. Learn more on our Parks and Recreation page.

Greenwood Cemetery

Greenwood Cemetery, located two miles east of Tower City, is one of the oldest and most historically significant sites in the area. The cemetery was platted and recorded at the Cass County Register of Deeds on October 15, 1885, with burials dating back to 1879. Approximately 700 individuals rest here, including thirteen Civil War veterans honored with military headstones. A Veterans Memorial Monument was added in the 1990s, and each year the community gathers on Memorial Day for a program honoring those who served.

Churches and Community Health

Faith and community service have always been central to life in Tower City. St. Paul's Lutheran Church and Tower City Presbyterian Church serve as spiritual anchors for the community, offering worship services, fellowship, and outreach programs. Tower City also benefits from a Community Health Ministry and parish nurse program that supports the health and wellness of residents, reflecting the deep commitment this community has to caring for its neighbors.

Places to Stay

Travelers along I-94 will find welcoming accommodations in Tower City. The Tower City Inn Bed and Breakfast, built in 1904 and beautifully restored with period antiques, offers guests a home-cooked breakfast and a genuine taste of North Dakota hospitality at I-94 Exit 307. The Tower Motel and Camping grounds provide additional lodging and outdoor camping options for visitors looking for a comfortable overnight stay.

City Government and Getting Involved

Tower City is governed by a dedicated mayor and city council committed to maintaining the quality of life that residents value. The council meets regularly to address community needs, manage city resources, and plan for the future. Residents are encouraged to attend council meetings, share ideas, and stay involved in shaping our community. Visit our City Officials page for more information, and check our Vision Statement and Core Values to learn about the principles guiding Tower City's future.

A Small Town with a Bright Future

With a current population of approximately 280 residents and a community that continues to grow at a steady pace, Tower City is a small town with big heart. Sitting at an elevation of 1,171 feet and covering just over two square miles of North Dakota prairie, our city proves that great communities are not measured by size. Our motto, Small Town Living at Its Best, captures the spirit of a place that values hard work, neighborly support, and the simple pleasures of life in the northern Great Plains. We invite you to explore our website, reach out with questions or suggestions, and discover the many reasons Tower City is a great place to live, work, and raise a family.