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Fort History Plains Tribes Site Map |
Living History Weekend
Every Labor Day weekend, Fort Union hosts muzzleloaders, buckskinners, and fur trade re-enactors. Black powder shooting demonstrations are conducted, tradesmen work in the blacksmith and carpenter shops, and trade re-enectments take place in the trade house reception room. The highlight of the weekend is the Last Bell Tour. After the last bell is rung, closing the fort for the night, visitors are led through a series of scenes related to an event in the history of the fort.
Park Ranger Bill George explains and demonstrates the Northwest trade gun.
Rangers and a volunteer perform another firing demonstration.
The Trade House is a favorite gathering place for the reenactors.
Traders share a pipe with Chief Big Weapon in preparation for negotiating a trade.
Last Bell Tour
In 1835, two unskilled laborers or engages, refered to as "the Spaniard and the Dutchman", conspired to skip out on their employment contracts, stealing two horses and some dried meat. They were unable to cross the Missouri river, and the Dutchman turned himself in at the gate. The Spaniard persisted in his escape attempt, but was captured by Indians and brought to the fort. They were both sentenced to thirty-nine lashes.
The Blacksmith and other tradesmen discuss the event and wonder about the fate of the two thieves.
Fur company clerks examine the accounts of the Spaniard and Dutchman and try to determine what items they may have stolen.
Trader negotiates with Big Weapon and Yellow Bird, who are demanding a reward for dragging the Spaniard in.
Join us for Last Bell Tour on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, starting at 8 pm. A new persentation every season!
