Rolette County

Governor John Burke of North Dakota was born on February 25, 1859, in Keokuk County, Iowa. Educated at Iowa State University’s law department, he graduated in 1886 and began practicing law in Des Moines. In 1888, he moved to Rolette County, North Dakota, where his legal acumen earned him a strong reputation. Burke married Mary Kane in 1891, and they had three children: Elizabeth, Thomas, and Marian. He served as county judge, state legislator, and was elected governor in 1906 and 1908. Known for his integrity and oratory skills, Burke significantly influenced North Dakota’s Democratic Party.