“History Unfolds”

Up the canyon on U.S. 14 to the west, the FT PIERRE-DEADWOOD TRAIL of 1876-86, the main artery of commerce to the “gold diggings” of the Black Hills had its course. Untold thousands of patient oxen pulled millions of tons of freight over that long route. Spirited horses took countless stages through in 48 hours when conditions were right.

Follow this arrow 1.3 miles and 3 miles to the right is monument to FORT PIERRE CHOUTEAU, fur capital of N.W. from 1831-1855; when purchased by the U.S. it became Military Post where GEN. W.S. Harney had famous council of 1856 with Sioux Indians.

On .7 mile and .5 mile to left is family graveyard of Scotty Philip, cattle and buffalo pioneer of west river country. Site of famous buffalo herd.

Beyond and on river side are sites of Fort Galpin, 1857. New Fort Pierre, 1859-66 and several Aricara villages 1400-1790. Over and beyond the dam were sites of Ft. LaFramboise II, 1862- 65, Ft. Primeau, 1862 and old Aricara fortress.

Stanley County, Highway 1806 north of junction with US Highway 14 (2006)