• The calm, inviting waters of the Spokane Arm. Photo Credit: NPS\LARO\John Salisbury

    Lake Roosevelt

    National Recreation Area Washington

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The Fur Trade

David Thompson

David Thompson: Fur trader, map-maker, explorer

Program Overview:
Your students will be delighted, as well as informed, when a NPS ranger comes to your classroom and delivers an interactive, prop-heavy, and relatable talk about a historic event of profound consequence for our region: the fur trade! We will explore topics such as David Thompson, local tribes, the barter system, Kettle Falls, and voyageurs. In easy to understand terms, discover how all of these things shaped the history of our area. This is an interactive program, students will be able to see up-close and handle actual animal pelts, a beaver felt-hat, trade goods, and some will even be able to wear the costume of a voyageur or fur trader!

EALR 1 1.1.1 Understands the key ideals of unity and diversity.

Grades: 1st - 8th
Group Size: 8-60 students
Program Length: 45 mins - 1 hour
Program Dates: This program will be available beginning May 1st, 2013


Fill out our reservation form to schedule a program or contact our education specialist for more information.

Did You Know?

Ranger Andy and some kids with a mule

Mules were the utility muscle for life in the late 1800s. When the Fort was active in the 1880s-1890s, over 60 mules made the historic stables their home. They had names like Kiep, Sally, or Ol' No. 7.