The admiralty case files consist of incomplete, unbound case papers filed in 5 admiralty proceedings held before the U.S. District Court for the Territory of Dakota, Second Judicial District, under the court's maritime jurisdiction. The cases brought on libel or complaint chiefly arose from claims for recovery of debts and wages against vessels engaged in commerce on the Missouri River. Documentation contained in the individual case files varies considerably but generally includes the libel or complaint initiating the action, warrants issued and process served, and orders or decrees satisfying judgment. Exhibits and depositions are contained in some of the case files. The dates listed for this series are not inclusive but indicate the earliest and latest documents filed with the cases.
