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S. Marius Houkom

s-marius-houkom

S. Marius Houkom in his office.  Institute for Regional Studies, NDSU, Fargo (Mss 48.3.1)

S. Marius Houkom was born Sveinung Marius Houkom on April 24, 1891 in Mekinock, North Dakota. Originally a farmer, he eventually earned a college education at North Dakota Agricultural College, now North Dakota State University. He later attended the University of Michigan for architecture. Following his education he became a partner in Braseth and Houkom, an architecture firm, in the early 1920’s until he established his own during World War II. He opened one more partnership firm for five years in the 1950’s and then practiced independently until 1978. Some of his architectural projects in Fargo include the original Island Park Pool, NDSU field house, and many churches. He also designed several houses and other commercial buildings in the area. Houkom served as the president and vice president of the North Dakota State Board of Architecture. After he retired in 1978 he moved to Wisconsin and lived with his daughter until he died on November 3, 1980.

Sources:

  1. “S. Marious Houkom Papers, 1922- 1977”. 2009. Finding Aid Institute for Regional Studies & University Archives North Dakota State University Libraries. Fargo, ND. October 24, 2016.
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The Fargo History Project

The Fargo History Project began in Fall 2012 as part of a Digital History course at North Dakota State University. What started as a class effort to explore Fargo’s early history through archival research has grown into an ongoing, collaborative public history initiative. Students continue to work in libraries, archives, and the community to uncover and interpret the city’s past, contributing research that expands the project in new directions each year.

Over time, the project has moved beyond its original digital format to include a range of public-facing work. Students have produced original documentaries, conducted oral histories, and developed a Fargo history walking tour that invites people to experience the city’s past in place. These additions reflect a broader commitment to making history accessible, engaging, and relevant to public audiences.

Have a story, photograph, or piece of Fargo’s history to share? Send it to us or get in touch—we want to include your voice in the project.

Angela J. Smith is Professor of History and Director of the Public History Program at North Dakota State University. Her work focuses on public history, digital history, and twentieth-century U.S. history, with an emphasis on community-engaged research and making the past accessible to broader audiences.

Fargo History Resources

The Fargo History Project is a public history initiative produced by students at NDSU. ©North Dakota State University