Fort Buford State Historic Site

   Fort Buford was established in 1866 to protect settlers from attacks by the Lakota, led by Sitting Bull, as they traveled west on overland trails and river routes. Historically this fort is important as the place where Sitting Bull surrendered and also for the black regiments that were posted at the fort from 1891 and 1894.

   The fort was enlarged several times most notably in 1867–1868 when materials from the dismantled Fort Union trading post were used in the construction. By 1895 the fort was no longer needed and most of the buildings were sold and moved, or torn down. The 1872 Commanding Officer's Quarters, the 1875 stone Powder Magazine, and Guard/Officer of the Day hut remain on the grounds. One of the barracks has been reconstructed.

    Boardwalks lead to all of the buildings. Interpretive signs explain what took place in each area. The interpretive sign about the black regiments has been placed in a storage area instead of being on display outside which is disturbing and disrespectful. The Commanding Officer's Quarters and the barracks have exhibits inside.

   Several areas around the fort can also be explored. A small building west of the fort was built by the Masons and a horse statue was recently erected to honor the black soldiers. When the fort was in use there were two separate, segregated Mason Lodges. Follow the paved trail across from the fort parking lot to a small cemetery. After the fort was closed the soldiers bodies were moved to a military cemetery but wooden boards mark where their graves were and civilians are still buried in the cemetery.

    An added attraction is a beautiful free campground within walking distance of the fort. Camping is permitted for four nights. There are tables, fire rings, trash cans and a choice of shade or sun. Watch for low hanging branches. Restrooms are located at the fort parking lot.

                     
   The fort site is fairly accessible. The boardwalks are bumpy but lead to ramps for entry to the Commanding Officer's Quarters and the barracks. The exhibits in the Officer’s Quarters are accessible. The barracks building was not open when we visited. The interpretive signs can be read from a seated position. The Mason building is not open to the public. The horse statue is surrounded by thick grass so it’s very difficult to push far enough to and close. The trail to the cemetery starts paved, becomes gravel road, then thick grass. The campground has tuffs of grass which make rolling difficult.

   The fort parking lot and campground are large enough for any RV. Fort  47.98591, -104.00097