This triangulation station is the base point of origin of geodetic positions and directions in the triangulation net of the United States because it is at the junction of the main east-west transcontinental triangulation arc stretching from the Atlantic to the pacific Coast and the main north-south arc, which follows approximately the 98th meridian from the Canadian border to the Rio Grande. The following position should be considered as approximations only.

North America Continent – 6 miles west of Balta, Pierce County N.D. Latitude 48 ,10’ longitude 100,10’

The center is marked with a monument or cairn that is pyramid form in shape. It is 21 feet high, 6 feet wide at its base, and setting on a heart shaped foundation. It was built across the highway, Northwest of its present location, by W.B. Paterson and E.B. Paterson with the assistance from local Boy Scouts and other young men in the community. The Rugby Lions Club donated cement and other materials used in the construction. It was completed in August 1932.

It remained at that location until July 1971 when Highway 2 was four laned, and its location was becoming a frontage road. At that time it was moved to its present location on the southeast corner of the intersection of Highway 2 & 3. In 1955, work was done to beautify the area around the monument with a rock garden welcoming you, an information board, and three new flagpoles representing each of the countries making up North America. (Canada, United States, and Mexico)