BISMARCK, N.D. — Excavation efforts at the North Dakota Governor’s Residence have unearthed seven coffins containing human remains, alongside an empty wooden box, as part of a discovery that dates back over a century. The state’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) reported the findings in a communication on Oct. 6, 2026, following a dig that was initiated after contractors accidentally uncovered a burial site in May.
The preliminary analysis of the remains indicates that they belonged to a diverse group comprising two women, two men, two teenage boys, and a toddler. Brandon Solberg, director of facilities management at the OMB, noted that crews examined over 80 identified anomalies in the yard before officially concluding fieldwork on Sept. 14. The excavation began on Sept. 1, following the initial discovery.
While the physical digging has ceased, scientific investigation is set to continue. Archaeologists are tasked with meticulously cataloging the remains and other artifacts discovered during the excavation, a complex process expected to extend into early 2027. As of now, the remains have not been identified.
The series of events leading to this discovery began on May 19, when contractors engaged in routine work at the property struck human remains amid remnants of coffins. Work was halted immediately after the discovery, prompting a response from the State Historical Society of North Dakota. Initial radar scans of the area revealed several additional anomalies, suggesting the potential presence of up to 10 graves on-site.
Historically, this location served as Bismarck’s first community cemetery from 1873 until its closure in 1877. The majority of graves were believed to have been relocated to St. Mary’s and Fairview cemeteries in the 1880s; however, previous excavations at the site have demonstrated that not all remains were successfully moved. Findings from a 1903 project unearthed 13 burials, and another dig in 1959 revealed five more. Kara Haff, a spokesperson for the State Historical Society, highlighted the expectations of the past, noting records showed that crews in the 1880s were certain they had relocated all but two graves.
Plans are in place for the respectful reburial of the remains, with a local funeral home contracted by the OMB to lead the efforts. Crisis Care Chaplaincy has also volunteered to assist, ensuring the remains are treated with dignity. According to the governor’s office, Governor Kelly Armstrong is committed to ensuring that the remains are handled appropriately, with a reburial slated for the spring of 2027, after the completion of the cataloging process.
This discovery serves as a sobering reminder of the complexities surrounding historical burial sites and the legacies they leave behind. As investigations proceed, the community is grappling with an aspect of its history that had long been considered resolved.