Submitted Photo Minot Area Community Foundation presents a grant to the Ward County Historical Society. From left are: back, Bob Weigelt, MACF PresidentJason Zimmerman, Dan Caswell, Sheldon Albertson, Steve Perry; front, Jim Norlin, MACF Finance and Program Director Staci Kenney, Tim Hoff, Rachelle Badem, Robert Bruhaug, Kathy Fimreite, Sue Bergen and Alyea Miller.

BURLINGTON – The Minot Area Community Foundation announced it has awarded $20,000 from the Chuck and Madge Westlie Fund to the Ward County Historical Society (WCHS) to support the construction of a new firearms display building at Pioneer Village.

The grant is specifically designated toward the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system for the planned firearms display building, which is essential for proper climate control and protection of the historic firearms collection. Maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels will help prevent warping and deterioration of the firearms and related artifacts over time.

“We’re so grateful. I wanted a museum and didn’t think I’d ever see one here, let alone be involved in building one, and it’s going to be nothing but the best,” WCHS board member Tim Hoff said in a news release.

The new building will provide enhanced security measures and expanded display space for the growing collection. Once completed, it will become the first and only dedicated gun museum in North Dakota. The total project cost exceeds $225,000.

“Minot Area Community Foundation remains committed to supporting projects and organizations that celebrate the history, culture, and heritage of the communities it serves, helping ensure these important stories continue to be shared for years to come,” Foundation President Jason Zimmerman said in the release. “We’re proud to support the great work happening at Pioneer Village.”

Founded in 1951, the Ward County Historical Society has served as the primary steward of regional history for more than seven decades. Its flagship site, Pioneer Village, an open-air museum located in Burlington, preserves and shares the stories, artifacts and heritage of north central North Dakota for residents and visitors.