Statehood Dates: North Dakota, Montana, and the "South Washington" Myth

There is no "South Washington" state. The question likely confuses:

• Washington (admitted November 11, 1889)
• South Dakota (admitted November 2, 1889, same day as North Dakota)

Actual Admissions

• North Dakota: November 2, 1889 (39th state)
• South Dakota: November 2, 1889 (40th state)
• Montana: November 8, 1889 (41st state)
• Washington: November 11, 1889 (42nd state)

All four were admitted within nine days during the "Omnibus Statehood" push under President Benjamin Harrison. The Dakota Territory was split due to Republican political strategy (adding four Senate seats). Montana and Washington followed enabling acts passed the same year.