Luther B. Richardson, born March 22, 1836, in Cheshire, Massachusetts, relocated with his family to Plattsburg and then Lowville, New York. In 1882, he moved to Grand Forks, Dakota Territory, where he played a key role in organizing the Union National Bank, serving as its president. Richardson was deeply involved in public affairs, serving as Secretary of the Territory of North Dakota in 1889 and Mayor of Grand Forks from 1890 to 1894. Known for his enterprise and prudence, he passed away on July 20, 1901, in Grand Forks, survived by his wife and one son.
Luther B. Richardson was born on March 22, 1836, in Cheshire, Berkshire County, Massachusetts. When he was five years old, his family relocated to Plattsburg, New York, and later to Lowville, New York, where Mr. Richardson resided until shortly before his move to Grand Forks in 1882. During this time, he was involved in financial and real estate work and held an excellent reputation in his hometown.
In 1882, Mr. Richardson arrived in Grand Forks, then a part of Dakota Territory. Although the town was small and new, he recognized the potential for growth and immediately began contributing to the development of the western region. He played a key role in organizing the Union National Bank and subsequently served as its president until he voluntarily stepped down to focus more on his expanding personal business endeavors. The bank’s prosperity and stability can be attributed in large part to his combination of enterprise and prudence.
Mr. Richardson actively engaged in public affairs and was a dedicated member of the Republican Party. In 1889, he was appointed Secretary of the Territory of North Dakota, serving in the position with distinction. He also held the position of Mayor of the City of Grand Forks from 1890 to 1894, resigning in early 1894 due to declining health. His extensive business experience and wisdom greatly benefited the city during this period, as numerous challenging problems required resolution. Despite his warm and affable nature, he maintained a dignified and scholarly demeanor, surprising many who expected to encounter only rough and uncultured individuals during their visits to the West. Mr. Richardson passed away in Grand Forks on July 20, 1901, leaving behind his wife and one son.
Source
C.F. Cooper & Company, History of the Red River Valley, Past And Present: Including an Account of the Counties, Cities, Towns And Villages of the Valley From the Time of Their First Settlement And Formation, volumes 1-2; Grand Forks: Herald printing company, 1909.