JAMESTOWN, N.D. — The State Historical Society of North Dakota Foundation, the primary fundraising arm of the State Historical Society of North Dakota, recently received a $5,865,699 donation from the estate of George Spangler on behalf of the Stutsman County Courthouse State Historic Site.

This generous contribution, designated to help preserve and support the Stutsman County Courthouse State Historic Site, is the largest donation in the Foundation’s history. This site is managed by the State Historical Society.

Sebastian George Spangler farmed and raised cattle in the Jamestown area in addition to operating an antique business. His legacy of community involvement and dedication to Jamestown’s heritage will be honored through this gift.

“We are overwhelmed,” said Barb Lang, a longtime member of the1883 Stutsman County Courthouse Committee, said, “It’s incredible to think that the courthouse will be preserved beyond our lifetimes, and likely even for our grandchildren’s lifetimes. Truly awesome.”

Bill Peterson, director of the State Historical Society, expressed his gratitude for Spangler’s generosity, stating, “This transformative gift for the Stutsman County Courthouse State Historic Site is a remarkable legacy that George left for the people of this state. We are grateful.”

Steve Reidburn, former Stutsman County Courthouse Site Supervisor, fondly remembers Spangler. “George was my go-to person for early Jamestown history,” Reidburn shared. “He had an incredible knowledge of many unique architectural homes in Jamestown.”