General Info
Mountrail County was originally established in 1873 and then dissolved into Ward County in 1892. The county was reestablished in 1909 with its present boundaries and named in honor of Joseph Mountraille. Stanley was selected as the county seat and railroad expansion allowed for growth. Early industry was led by agriculture as residents farmed wheat, oats, potatoes and cattle. The recent discovery of oil throughout the area has allowed for economic development and prompted a new land boom. Today Mountrail County is home to approximately 7,673 residents.
