Old Penitentiary Park | Rawlins

Information

Landmark: Old Penitentiary Park
City: Rawlins
Country: USA Wyoming
Continent: North America

Old Penitentiary Park, Rawlins, USA Wyoming, North America

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is a reconstructed 19th-century fur trading post located on the Missouri River in Williams County, North Dakota.

Visual Characteristics

The site features a reconstructed palisade wall constructed from timber. Within the palisade, buildings include a large, two-story main house, a blacksmith shop, a carpenter shop, and various storage structures. The structures are built primarily from wood and adobe, reflecting the building techniques of the period. The surrounding landscape is characterized by prairie vegetation.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located approximately 17 miles west of Williston, North Dakota, off US Highway 2. Access is via County Road 17. Ample parking is available on-site. No public transport directly serves the site.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Fort Union was established in 1828 by the American Fur Company and operated until 1867. It served as the primary fur trading post on the Upper Missouri River, facilitating trade with Native American tribes. The site is situated on the Missouri River floodplain.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the reconstructed buildings, including the commander's quarters and trade store. Ranger-led programs are offered seasonally, detailing the fort's history and the fur trade era. Interpretive exhibits are available within the main house.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by the reconstructed buildings. Cell phone signal is generally weak to non-existent within the fort itself. No food vendors are present at the site; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle provides optimal lighting on the structures. The site is open seasonally, typically from May through September. Weather is most favorable for outdoor exploration during the summer months.

Facts & Legends

Fort Union was the largest and longest-lasting fur trading post on the Upper Missouri River. It was a crucial hub for commerce and cultural exchange between European traders and numerous Native American nations, including the Assiniboine, Blackfeet, Crow, Gros Ventre, and Sioux.