North Dakota isn't exactly known as a place with many castles. In fact, other than the Enchanted Castle in Regent, North Dakota, which is technically a renovated school, there are pretty much none. But what most people don't know is that there is a castle in North Dakota hidden out in the middle of nowhere in a field, and it was actually built to be a North Dakota castle. It's known as the Coghlan Castle. Don't believe us? Keep reading to learn more.
Located in Rolette County near Rolla, North Dakota, is a hidden abandoned castle known as the Coghlan Castle.
The Coghlan Castle has stood here in North Dakota for well over a century. Back when it was built in the very earliest years of the 1900s, most other houses in the area were made of sod. This was a majestic palace compared to them. The original owners of this huge place were the Coghlan Family who lived here for only a few short years before leaving and renting it out until the 1940s. After that, it was left behind to rot.
The castle is built of stones from the area, mainly granite, limestone, and sandstone.
The Coghlan Castle was designed by Canadian architect Thomas Boyner, and it looks like something directly from a fairy tale. It is technically the one and only true castle in North Dakota, and barely anyone ever knew about it until more recently when it was finally added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
Despite its majestic look from a distance, up close you can see that it has deteriorated quite a bit during the time it's been abandoned.
Due to natural weathering and vandalism, the Coghlan Castle does not look quite as beautiful as it once did. The interior is, at this point, hard to save. However, the outside is still standing rock solid.
Thanks to efforts by Save Coghlan Castle, Inc., the castle is being restored and can now be enjoyed from an interpretive site.
This castle has a story more interesting than any fairytale. You can now check it out for yourself at an interpretive site near the castle that has a fantastic view of the building and a panel full of information about it.
If you'd like to see the Coghlan Castle for yourself, please be aware that the castle is on private property that should be respected. There is a spot open to the public on the road where you can see the castle and read the information panel. It is off of 48th Avenue about halfway between the towns of St. John and Rolla, North Dakota.
Have you ever heard about the Coghlan Castle before? Let us know in the comments below.
Speaking of Rolla, while you're in the area, be sure to check out the Chicken Hut! And if this adventure is part of a road trip, take a look at our ultimate list of 50 on-the-go food ideas.
If you’re still in the mood for more North Dakota adventures, take a look at this video:
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