The Fargo Foundry, established in 1905, is located near the Red River at 92 NP Avenue. The firm was started by Kalmen and Parsons as a machine shop at the corner of NP Avenue and First Avenue. The main thrust of the business was the manufacture and repair of farm equipment. One of the firm's firast products was a press that that compacted flax straw into briquets to be used instead of coal for heating. Other well known prodcust have included the Dakota Burner in the 1920's, irrigationa sprinkling systems inthe 1930's, and the Fargo Sprayer inthe 1940's.

About 1973-74, the Foundry changed its name to Mid America Steel to reflect its own change from a foundry (which it closed in 1978) to a steel fabrication company.

From its original 11,000 square foot facility (see above right), thefirm has grown to an 11 acre facility (seen below right). In July 1978, the firm opened an additional facility in Bismarck.

Thanks to John Simonson and Mid America Steel for providing historical material.