Fort Programs

NPS Photo

Experience history come to life with our Costume Rangers, who will be offering engaging tours, informative talks, and exciting demonstrations throughout the day. Discover the fascinating stories and events that shaped our past as our rangers share their knowledge and passion for history.

Summer Program Descriptions

Flintlocks - Tools of Survival:

Presentation on flintlock muzzle loaders that may include stories, historical information, and audience participation followed by the ranger loading and firing the muzzle loader. Please note that these demonstrations are dependent on weather and fire safety conditions. If conditions are too dry, a regular historical talk will replace the firing demonstration to ensure safety.

Talks:

Twenty to thirty minute presentation about topics related to the Lewis and Clark Expedition and may include topics such as preparations for the journey, survival of the Expedition and unsung heros of the expedition.

Raising and Lowering of the Colors:

Five minute long talk regarding the 15-star 15-striped flag flown above Fort Clatsop. Hearkens in the beginning and end of our days at the fort. Topics may include flag on the expedition, the war of 1812, or the symbolism of the flag.

Netul Walk:

A thirty minute quarter mile hike with a ranger down the Netul River Trail. Talks and topics may include discussing native plants, birds, wildlife, and experiences of the Expedition. This is available as staffing allows, please call in advance to confirm hikes for the day.

Historical Demonstration: All day

Ongoing programs that allows participants to gain a better understanding of a specific aspect of the expedition, and have the opportunity to touch replica items that they expedition would have used, or try an activity commonly completed by the Corps of Discovery. Examples of demonstrations include quill pen wirting, flint and steel fire starting, candle making, hides and furs, and more!