JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Jamestown Tourism Executive Director Searle Swedlund reports that the Frontier Village will remain in Jamestown as information continues to be released regarding the site.

The City of Jamestown made the decision to move forward with accepting bids for the lease of the Frontier Village, leaving the Frontier Village Association’s existence in limbo.

In a Letter to the Editor submitted to the Jamestown Sun, the Frontier Village Association Board reports that they are left with two options.

“Allowing our collection to be taken over by the city or removing it from city land. We choose the latter. We will not allow our collection of historic buildings and antiques to become the victim of a hostile takeover. Because of the City Council’s actions, we have begun the process of finding new homes for our buildings and antiques, and will soon be closing our doors for good. While this will undoubtedly be an emotional process for us, and disappointing for our community, it is better than the alternative.”

Swedlund says the Frontier Village will continue to be a part of Jamestown, but what comes into question is the artifacts, fixtures, and buildings.

“Under new management, it will evolve as a new visitor experience by enhancing the historical and educational opportunities,” Swedlund stated. “Many people in the community have loaned items to the Frontier Village Association in good faith. If there is no deed of gift or receipt, you can contact the FVA board of directors to request items be returned.”

The Frontier Village Association has reportedly already begun transitioning some items to the Perham Pioneer Village in Minnesota.

“The City of Perham has communicated with the City of Jamestown that many of these items have already been removed and are in their possession. These items are not part of the lease with the City of Jamestown, and thus individuals should contact the Frontier Village Association board directly.”

The Frontier Village Association recently voted to see, convey, mortgage, pledge, lease, and exchange all or any part of its property and assets.

“If you have provided items to the Frontier Village Association, please direct questions related to those items to the FVA board of directors. Do it soon, as artifacts have already been released by the Frontier Village Association.”

The city is currently bidding the lease of the Frontier Village. A new lease will be discussed at the November 19th Committee meeting.