Welcome to Velva, a small but historically rich city nestled in McHenry County, North Dakota. Founded in 1897, Velva’s story begins with the arrival of the Minneapolis, St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Railroad, commonly known as the Soo Line, which brought settlers to this area in 1886. The city was chartered in 1905, marking the beginning of its official existence as a municipality.
One of the key historical landmarks in Velva is the Hotel Berry, constructed in 1906 to accommodate railroad passengers. This building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, serving as a reminder of Velva’s early connection to the vital railroad industry.
Velva has been home to notable figures such as Eric Sevareid, a distinguished American broadcast journalist who was born here in 1912. Sevareid gained fame as one of ‘Murrow’s Boys’ during World War II, providing insightful commentary and analysis in the burgeoning field of broadcast journalism.
In recent history, Velva gained recognition for being the birthplace of Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels, a snack food brand founded by Dorothy Henke. Her culinary creation became a sensation, leading to the establishment of a factory in Velva. Although the facility was closed in 2023 after being acquired by The Hershey Company, Dot’s Pretzels remains a beloved brand with roots in this quaint city.
Over the years, Velva has evolved from a railroad hub to a bedroom community, providing a peaceful home for those working in nearby Minot. Despite its small size, Velva continues to thrive, maintaining its unique charm and historical significance.
