Mandan: Gateway to Western Adventure and Heritage

• HelloHow
  [h-ow]
• GoodbyeChinana
  [chi-na-na]
• YesEya
  [ei-ya]
• NoAya
  [ai-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeTaku
  [ta-ku]
• Thank youWopila
  [wo-pi-la]
• Excuse me/SorrySunka
  [sun-ka]
• How are you?Hehanyelo?
  [he-han-ye-lo]
• Fine. And you?Iyecel
  [i-ye-cel]
• Do you speak English?English wauŋtaya?
  [eng-lish wauŋ-ta-ya]
• I don't understandHektaŋhaŋ
  [hek-taŋ-haŋ]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu yustaya
  [me-nu yu-sta-ya]
• I don't eat meatWiwanyang wauŋyote
  [wi-wan-yan wauŋ-yo-te]
• Cheers!Opila!
  [o-pi-la]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKiksuya yustaya
  [kik-su-ya yu-sta-ya]

• Help!Ate
  [a-te]
• Go away!Wahíye
  [wa-hi-ye]
• Call the Police!Wíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• Call a doctor!Wíyokiyapi wíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• I'm lostLílaŋhé tuka
  [li-laŋ-he tu-ka]
• I'm illWíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]

• I'd like to buy...Iyoptaŋya...
  [i-yop-taŋ-ya]
• I'm just lookingTeton iyoptaŋya
  [te-ton i-yop-taŋ-ya]
• How much is it?Taku ksto?
  [ta-ku ksto]
• That's too expensiveHektaŋhaŋ wicu
  [hek-taŋ-haŋ wi-chu]
• Can you lower the price?Taku kiŋ hektaŋhaŋ
  [ta-ku king hek-taŋ-haŋ]

• What time is it?Wíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• It's one o'clockAŋpetu wičháŋ
  [an-pe-tu wi-chaŋ]
• Half past (10)Nakunpi
  [na-kun-pi]
• MorningHíŋhaŋni
  [hiŋ-haŋ-ni]
• AfternoonWíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• EveningWíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• YesterdayWíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• TodayWíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• TomorrowWíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• 1Numpa
  [num-pa]
• 2Numpa kiŋ
  [num-pa king]
• 3Numpa kiŋ he
  [num-pa king he]
• 4Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ
  [num-pa king he king]
• 5Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ he
  [num-pa king he king he]
• 6Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ
  [num-pa king he king he king]
• 7Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ he
  [num-pa king he king he king he]
• 8Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ
  [num-pa king he king he king he king]
• 9Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ he
  [num-pa king he king he king he king he]
• 10Numpa kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ he kiŋ
  [num-pa king he king he king he king he king]

• Where's a/the...?Hečíya...
  [he-chi-ya]
• What's the address?Hečíya tawápi
  [he-chi-ya ta-wa-pi]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Taku kiŋ tawápi tawaŋ
  [ta-ku king ta-wa-pi ta-waŋ]
• When's the next (bus)?Wíyokiyapi
  [wi-yo-ki-ya-pi]
• A ticket (to ....)Wótakuye...
  [wo-ta-ku-ye]

The history of Mandan, North Dakota, begins with the indigenous Mandan people, who have lived in the region for hundreds of years. Known for their earthlodge villages and agricultural prowess, the Mandan tribes were well-established long before European settlers arrived. They primarily lived along the Missouri River, cultivating crops such as corn, beans, and squash. The Mandan were also skilled traders, engaging in commerce with neighboring tribes and, eventually, European explorers.

In the winter of 1804-1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition famously stayed at Fort Mandan, near present-day Mandan, North Dakota. During this stay, the explorers gathered valuable information about the geography, flora, fauna, and native cultures of the region. Their time with the Mandan and Hidatsa tribes proved vital for the success of their journey to the Pacific Ocean. The fort and the interactions with the local tribes marked a significant chapter in the exploration of the American West.

The arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the late 19th century was a transformative event for Mandan. Founded in 1879, the city of Mandan was strategically located along the railroad, which spurred rapid growth and development. The railroad brought settlers, businesses, and industries to the area, turning Mandan into a bustling hub of activity. This period saw the establishment of key infrastructure and the diversification of the local economy.

In the early 20th century, Mandan experienced significant industrial growth with the establishment of the Mandan Refinery in 1954. This refinery, operated by Tesoro Corporation, became a major employer in the area and played a crucial role in the local economy. The presence of the refinery underscored Mandan's shift from a primarily agricultural community to a more industrialized one, contributing to the city's modernization and economic stability.

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, located just south of Mandan, is a treasure trove of history. Established in the late 19th century, the fort was an important military post during the Indian Wars. It was from this fort that Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer and his 7th Cavalry embarked on their ill-fated expedition to the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876. Today, the park features reconstructed military buildings, the Mandan Indian Village, and provides visitors with a glimpse into the region's storied past.

The Mandan Rodeo Days, held annually around Independence Day, is one of the oldest and most celebrated rodeos in the United States. This event highlights Mandan's rich cultural heritage and cowboy traditions. Featuring rodeo competitions, parades, fireworks, and a variety of entertainment, Mandan Rodeo Days draws visitors from all over, showcasing the community's vibrant spirit and deep-rooted connection to Western culture.

Mandan is located in North Dakota, United States, just across the Missouri River from Bismarck. The nearest major airport is Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), which is approximately 10 miles from Mandan. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or rental car to reach Mandan. Interstate 94 runs through Mandan, making it easily accessible by car. Amtrak also provides train services to the nearby Bismarck station.

Mandan offers several transportation options to get around the city. Local buses operated by Bis-Man Transit provide regular routes within Mandan and to Bismarck. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those who prefer to drive, car rentals are accessible at Bismarck Municipal Airport and various locations in the city. Many of Mandan’s attractions are within walking distance, especially in the downtown area.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout Mandan for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.

Mandan is generally a safe place for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not leaving belongings unattended. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Mandan has local police and fire departments as well as medical facilities. The nearest hospital is Sanford Medical Center in Bismarck, just a short drive away. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is recommended. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as North Dakota weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable clothing is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local religious sites and customs. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don’t play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Locals are generally friendly and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and regional specialties. Don't forget to tip your server, as it is customary in the United States.

To experience Mandan like a local, visit the Mandan Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Attend the Mandan Rodeo Days if you’re visiting around the Fourth of July, as it is a major local event. Explore the historical sites such as Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and the Custer House. Engaging with locals can offer insights into the area's history and culture. Don't miss out on the scenic views of the Missouri River from various parks and trails.