JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North American Bison Discovery Center will open its doors to the public on Thursday, October 23 from 5:30-7:30PM for a ceremony honoring its original founders.

These 16 creative and influential individuals representing the North Dakota Buffalo Foundation, Jamestown City Council, and Jamestown Promotion & Tourism Board joined together more than 30 years ago to bring an innovative idea to fruition: establish a museum and educational center dedicated to cultural and historical significance of the North American bison.

This event will celebrate those individuals and recognize their hard work, time, and financial contributions not only during the creation of the Bison Center, but also in sustaining it throughout the decades.

“More than 30 years ago, this group of individuals came together with an idea. An idea to create a space where we could educate. A space where we could honor both the historical and current significance of the North American bison,” said Ilana Xinos, Executive Director of the Bison Center. “But they didn’t let it stop at an idea. They made it happen. Without the initiative and support of our founders, the Bison Center would not exist and many, many people would have missed out on the opportunity to learn more about this majestic animal and its impact. We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to honor those individuals.”

The event will include:

• Unveiling of a Founder’s Plaque celebrating and recognizing the original founders of the Bison Center

• Ceremony and brief remarks honoring our founders and supporters

• Refreshments

• Free after-hours admission to explore the Bison Center’s exhibits and interactive areas

Learn more about the Bison Center at https://bisoncenter.org/

About North American Bison Discovery Center:

The North American Bison Discovery Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that is home to both a small bison herd and an interactive museum that tells the story of the North American bison and its role in shaping the cultural, ecological, and economic landscape of North America. The Bison Center’s role is to help educate individuals both on-site and virtually about not only the historical role and significance of bison, but also why sustainably restoring the bison population is vital today.