Hoople is a city located in Walsh County, North Dakota, United States. It is situated in the northeastern portion of the state within the Red River Valley and is part of the Grand Forks, ND-MN Metropolitan Statistical Area.
History and Etymology The community was established in 1889 and named after George Hoople, an early pioneer and landowner in the region. The city was officially incorporated in 1908. Historically, the development of the town was closely linked to the expansion of the regional railroad network, which facilitated the transport of agricultural goods.
Geography According to the United States Census Bureau, Hoople has a total area of approximately 0.22 square miles (0.57 square kilometers), all of which is land. The surrounding geography is characterized by the flat, fertile plains of the Red River Valley, a region known for its high-quality topsoil resulting from the prehistoric Glacial Lake Agassiz.
Demographics As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Hoople was 147 residents. This represents a decline from the 2010 census, which recorded a population of 242. The demographic composition of the city has historically been predominantly of European descent, reflecting the settlement patterns of Scandinavian and German immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Economy The economy of Hoople is primarily driven by agriculture. The region is a significant producer of potatoes, as well as wheat, barley, and sugar beets. The city serves as a local hub for agricultural services, storage, and processing.
Cultural Significance In popular culture, Hoople is the site of the fictional "University of Southern North Dakota at Hoople," a conceptual institution created by the musical satirist Peter Schickele. It serves as the academic home for Schickele's comedic persona and his biographical research into the fictional composer P. D. Q. Bach.