It was named for Oscar M. Towner (1842–1897), a businessman and member of the 15th territorial legislature.

That lasted until January 24, 1884, when the county organization was effected, and its attachment to Pembina was dissolved.

[3][4] The city of Towner, North Dakota, is in McHenry County.

Its terrain consists of rolling hills dotted with lakes and ponds.

[7] Towner County, North Dakota Weather Data Averages use 1901-2000 Records are from 1895–Present

In terms of ancestry, 46.5% were German, 41.5% were Norwegian, 10.4% were Irish, 7.4% were English, 5.5% were Swedish, and 3.2% were American.