10/10/2009:
Democratic presidential candidate and Nebraska congressman William Jennings Bryan visited Fargo on this date in 1896 as part of his national campaign. Bryan was one of the first politicians to practice a nationwide tour, speaking to large crowds of people from the back of a railcar. Most candidates at this time chose to send representatives around the country, each speaking on the candidate's behalf. Bryan's visit was highly publicized, and several additional trains had to be sent to Fargo, filled with supporters. Losing the 1896 election, he ran again in 1900 and 1908, but was defeated both times. He later served as President Woodrow Wilson's Secretary of State, but remains most prominent for his role in the infamous Scope's trial, in which he supported the Creationists in the debate over evolution.
Dakota Datebook written by Jayme L. Job
Source:
The Fargo Forum and Daily Republican, Monday (Evening ed.), Oct. 5, 1896: p.4.
The Fargo Forum and Daily Republican, Saturday (Evening ed.), Oct. 10, 1896: p.1.