Introduction to Pembina, North Dakota Situated at the extreme
northeastern corner of North Dakota, Pembina occupies a unique
place in the state’s heritage. The region is noted for a number
of “firsts” in North Dakota’s recorded history, including the
first European settlement, first organized church, first school,
first post office, first border/customs house, and first
homestead within present state borders. Throughout much of its
history, the Pembina region has been remote and sparsely
inhabited. Native people occupied the area on a seasonal basis,
utilizing resources such as the high bush cranberry for which
Pembina is reputed to have been named. As transportation methods
developed, Pembina became more accessible and more populated and
well-traveled. Pembina is located at the confluence of the
Pembina and Red rivers. The Red River of the North originates
south of Pembina, near the South Dakota border, and flows north
into Canada. The river serves as a natural boundary between
North Dakota and Minnesota. Pe