Sims

The Brick City

State: North Dakota County: Morton County Founded: 1883 Abandoned: 1940s Peak Population: 1,000

Sims produced coal and high-quality bricks (used in the state capitol). The town declined as the coal seams ran out. The Sims Scandinavian Lutheran Church (the 'Gray Lady of the Plains') is a stunning brick structure that still holds occasional services, standing alone on the prairie.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time: Summer

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 30 mins

Quick Facts

  • Sims bricks built the State Capitol
  • Lutheran Church still active occasionally
  • Parsonage preserved as museum

Location

Address: Sims, ND

Coordinates: 46.7667, -101.4833