While surrounded today by freeways and a large urban population in St. Paul, Fort Snelling was once a lonely symbol of American ambition in the wilderness. Today it is a local historical site that provides visitors with a glimpse into Minnesota's past. The restored historic fort allows you to step back in time to the early 1800s. Costumed interpreters share the fort's story through conversation, demonstrations and in-depth programs. Beyond the main history center, thousands of locals and visitors enjoy the hiking and biking trails through the park.
History
By 1851, treaties had opened much of the new Territory of Minnesota and pushed the frontier farther west. Fort Snelling existed solely as a supply depot. Plans to expand the fort and develop its city were abandoned with the outbreak of the Civil War. Between 1880 and the early 1900s, new barracks, officers' quarters, and storehouses were built at the post while the older buildings of the old stone fort were demolished. After World War II, the fort was closed and turned over to the Veteran's Administration.
Fort Snelling was designated as the state's first National Historic Landmark in 1960. Its History Center provides orientation films and changing exhibits on aspects of Minnesota's past, while Fort Snelling State Park below offers dozens of hiking trails and natural settings. For those seeking a more in-depth visit, the fort offers classes to learn about life in the early days of the Fort, including:
- Bread Baking Class
- Blacksmith for Day
- Ladies Tea
- Hearth Baking
Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors and college students, $5 children ages 6-17; free for children age 5 and under and MHS members.
Hours: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m.; September and October: Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open Mondays Memorial Day, July 5 and Labor Day.
Comments