Another piece of evidence

Typically state songs attach themselves to actual states. Hence, we share one more piece of evidence that there really is a North Dakota.

Anna can attest to the truth of the third line in the third stanza (which we've highlighted in blue): "Sweet the winds above thee blowing." The wind was pretty much blowing the entire time we were in the state, including while she was running the marathon.

North Dakota Hymn
Written by James W. Foley
Composed by Dr. C. S. Putnam

North Dakota, North Dakota,
With thy prairies wide and free,
All thy sons and daughters love thee,
Fairest state from sea to sea;
North Dakota, North Dakota,
Here we pledge ourselves to thee.

Here thy loyal children singing,
Songs of happiness and praise,
Far and long the echoes ringing,
Through the vastness of thy ways;
North Dakota, North Dakota,
We will serve thee all our days.

Onward, onward, onward going,
Light of courage in thine eyes,
Sweet the winds above thee blowing,
Green thy fields and fair thy skies;
North Dakota, North Dakota,
Brave the soul that in thee lies.

God of freedom, all victorious,
Give us Souls serene and strong,
Strength to make the future glorious,
Keep the echo of our song;
North Dakota, North Dakota,
In our hearts forever long.