Former Governors` Mansion Hosts Ice Cream Social | Video

Joel Porter | 8/13/2012

Kids and families were invited out for games and food on the lawn. The State Historical Society, with help from volunteers, were hosting an ice cream social at the former governers` mansion in Bismarck.

The house, which was built in 1884, hosts the event every year. The society has held custody of the home since 1975. They say free-will offerings collected at events like today help fund a number of free events throughout the year.

"It`s very nice, because this is a building that should be preserved. And I`m so pleased it is being taken care of like it is. We`re proud of our state," former First Lady Grace Link said.

"The day turned out a lot better than we thought it was going to be today. So the good lord is with us, I guess," board member Bruce Hagen said.

Folk singers from Mandan also performed this afternoon, celebrating 150 years since the Homestead Act of 1862 was signed.

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