McCanna Farming Company (McCanna, N.D.)

In 1881, brothers David and Simon McCanna established the McCanna Farming Company in Elm Grove Township, Grand Forks County, North Dakota. Simon remained in Grand Forks County and, in 1883, founded the town of McCanna. In 1885, Simon married Katherine O'Gorman. Eight children were born, many of whom died in infancy. The remaining children were Charles D., Edwin T. and Reuben. Within a few years, the McCanna Farming Company grew into a diverse business. The farm raised pure-bred Aberdeen Angus cattle as well as spring wheat, durum, barley, and oats. Over one hundred horses and mules were required to operate the farm's machinery. When Simon died in 1906, control of the farm passed to his oldest son, Charles. In 1911, under the direction of Edwin, the McCanna family established the Bank of McCanna. By 1922, Edwin was president of three banks, McCanna, Garske, and Backoo. The McCanna Farming Company survived the Great Depression and during World War II, the farm raised a variety of small grain crops, pork, and beef. After Charles' death in 1957, the McCanna Farming Company was reorganized as a partnership, with a manager, C.H. Erbele.