‘Games of Pembina’s Past’ program

March 25, 2026

 Shuffle your way into the past at the Pembina State Museum during “Games of Pembina's Past: Faro and Frontier Gambling” on Saturday, April 18. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 p.m. to learn how to play faro, a popular and fast-paced game of chance from Pembina’s frontier days. The event is free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

First played in France in the 1600s, faro spread to England by the 1700s and reached the United States in the 1800s, where it quickly became one of the country’s most popular gambling games. Between 1825 and 1915, it was played in nearly every saloon across the American West. Site interpreters will be available in the museum lobby with a replica faro set to teach the game to visitors.

This family-friendly event is part of the ND250 commemoration celebrating our country’s 250th birthday.

The Pembina State Museum, located at 805 Highway 59, Pembina, is managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, contact Outreach Coordinator Brian Hardy, [email protected] or 701.825.6840. Find upcoming events sponsored by the State Historical Society at history.nd.gov/events or call 701.328.2666.