The North Dakota Transportation Hall of Honor was created to recognize those who have had a major role and made a lasting impact on the development of the transportation system at the state, county, or local level. It also honors those who participate in highway safety programs or help promote the vital function roadways provide to the citizens of North Dakota.
1970-1979 Honorees
Erling Henrikson, NDSHD Construction Engineer, 1979
During Erling Henrikson's 44 years with the Highway Department, approximately $775 million in highways and bridge construction work was completed--including nearly all of the interstate system. As head of the Construction Division, he developed field procedure manuals and short instructional courses for employees.
Through his efforts, millions of dollars were saved when North Dakota permitted unrestricted use of drum dryers for mixing asphalt paving materials. Active on numerous highway boards and commissions, Erling Henrikson will be remembered as a quiet and unassuming man with high standards of excellence.
Adrian C. Taylor, Pioneer Concrete Contractor, 1979
Adrian C. Taylor has made many significant contributions in the field of engineering. He received the Outstanding Service Award from the Bismarck Chapter of the North Dakota Society of Professional Engineers and the Ellwyn Chandler Award--the state Society's highest award for accomplishments in engineering. He was instrumental in the design and manufacture of prestressed concrete beams used on the Interstate Highway System while employed by North Dakota Concrete Products.
James Connolly, Pioneer in Highway Safety, 1978
As an organizer and officer of the North Dakota Driver and Traffic Education Association, James Connolly began and, for years, maintained statewide driver education records. Serving as president of several safety councils, he shared his knowledge of highway safety with others. Connolly's work in saving lives and property through safety programs makes him an essential part of the successful highway story in North Dakota.
James Lamb, NDSHD Commissioner, 1978
The shortage of manpower and money during the war years, coupled with the need to maintain a strong road network for national defense, put a strain on the Highway Department--a challenge that James Lamb was able to meet. Throughout his six years as Commissioner from 1939 to 1945, Lamb ensured job security for those with ability and stabilized the department's financial management. He brought a business-like manner to his office, which has been echoed by later commissioners and is necessary to maintain North Dakota's road network as one of the best in the nation.
A.W. Wentz, NDSHD Commissioner, 1978
In 1957, the controversy over the need for interstate highways was just beginning. It took a man with foresight, A. W. Wentz, to see the future transportation demands of the state and overcome the objections. Twice while Wentz was commissioner from 1957 to 1961, the Highway Department received the Highway Users Federation Golden Milestone Award for outstanding service in presenting a clear, concise summary of highway improvement progress.
Archie Campbell, Pioneer Contractor, 1976
Beginning his career in 1915 at the age of 18, Archie Campbell became one of the state's first dirt contractors. Campbell received his first Highway Department contract in 1917; since then, he has constructed over 1,500 miles of roads within North Dakota. Campbell's contributions will be a lasting monument to his skill, responsibility and integrity.
Reuben Reich, NDSHD Materials Engineer, 1976
Reuben Reich retired from the Highway Department after 33 years, leaving behind the development of a new and advanced division of Material Testing and Research. His efforts led to the use of native material, which has greatly influenced cost reduction in road building. Reich's record of proficiency provided for unparalleled highway transportation in North Dakota.
Maxine Scarff, NDSHD Maintenance Employee, 1976
Maxine Scarff's loyal service spans 34 years in the Maintenance Division. She pioneered winter road reports, which have provided for public safety for many years. Her employment with the department was not confined to regular working hours: Miss Scarff extended her duties into weekends and holidays. Her exemplary contributions will be long remembered.
Worl A. "Buzz" Wise, NDSHD Materials Engineer, 1975
Following World War II, North Dakota's highway system was in need of much repair. With construction materials in short supply, major restoration seemed impossible. It was during this period that Materials Engineer Wise introduced the concept of stage construction. By placing thin overlays of asphaltic concrete over roads initially, then returning to complete the project in future years, funds could be stretched, and more roads repaired.
George Dixon; Founder, Good Roads Association; 1975
In 1918, upset that people were getting lost between Fargo and Grand Forks, George Dixon took it upon himself to sign the entire roadway. Because of curtailed highway funds in the early 1940s, he organized the Good Roads Association. Through the group's efforts, legislation was passed that got North Dakota's road program on its feet once more.
Dean Hagen, NDSHD Secondary Roads Engineer, 1975
With the pressing need for improved farm-to-market roads in the late 1940s, the Highway Department initiated a Secondary Roads Division where Dean Hagen was at the head for 25 years. In addition to improved rural roads, signing safety features were instigated and bridges upgraded. Hagen's efforts laid a lasting foundation for many programs to be developed later.
Esky Solberg; Legislator, Highway Supporter; 1975
Esky Solberg has a long involvement in highway activities. For 25 years, he served as chairman of the North Dakota Highway Users Conference. As a member of the national conference, his influence was felt across the nation. He was the highway spokesman at the state's constitutional convention and continued this role in the State Senate for several years.
James O. Kyser, NDSHD Maintenance Engineer, 1974
James Kyser was Maintenance Engineer from 1967 to 1974. During his tenure with the department, he implemented several new programs. Among them were an increased use of salt to cut ice and snow on highways during winter months, a chemical program for weed control, and a management program whereby work is measured in man-hour cost rather than cost per mile.
John L. McCormick, Sr.; Pioneer Contractor; 1974
A pioneer contractor in the Fargo area, John McCormick's firm built the first concrete highway in North Dakota. Beginning as president of the Fargo Transfer Co., he expanded operations into the McCormick Construction Co., which later became the Northern Improvement Co. John advocated for a close relationship between the construction industry and Highway Department. Above all, he is remembered as a man of his word. With or without a contract, when he agreed to do a job, it was done.
Ray Robinson, NDSHD Maintenance Engineer, 1974
Ray Robinson contributed his entire 45-year work career to the betterment of North Dakota roads. For 27 years, he served as State Highway Maintenance Engineer, organizing the division to modern standards and then initiating such policies as increased snow and ice removal operations, the use of two-way radio operations, and teletype for more accurate winter road information.
Milton L. Rue; Contractor, Legislator; 1974
Milton Rue was a pioneer in highway construction. It is estimated that during his lifetime, Rue Construction built about 750 bridges, including approximately 83 exits on Interstate 94. Upon his death, a leading North Dakotan paid Rue this tribute: "From a humble beginning, he built one of the most successful contracting firms in the state. He had a long and honorable career as a legislator, party official and businessman. He was one of the most charitable men I ever knew."