1890

Football began in the 1890's, with an intense rivalry that lasts to this day against the Agricultural College, now North Dakota State University. The early contests were bruising affairs. Faculty and coaches often joined the teams, and there were few or no rules, regulations, or referees. The games were described as "little more than officially sanctioned gang fights," and often ended with fist fights on the field and on the street. Feelings eventually became so intense and the games so brutal that during the early 1900's, the games against the Agriculture College were canceled.

The first telephone on campus was installed in 1890, dubbed the "class tree" by freshmen. Getting to town during this time was difficult. Trains ran only in the afternoons, so most classes were held then. The University also provided a horse and carriage bus, called the "Black Maria."