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Fort Atkinson State Historical Park

Park Snapshot Washington County E of Fort Calhoun Lat: 41.45498 Lon: -96.01189 Aerial Map 157 acres (0 water) Click region for new search (AreaID: 73) Attractions Overnight Accommodations Facility Details Printable Brochure Driving Directions Contact Information: Fort Atkinson SHP PO Box 240 Fort Calhoun,  NE  68023-0240 Phone: (402) 468-5611 ngpc.Fort.Atkinson@nebraska.gov

The first U.S. military post west of the Missouri River, Fort Atkinson was established in 1820 on recommendation of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Located at Fort Calhoun, the fort was important to the early fur trade, river traffic and Indian relations.

Much of the historic outpost has been reconstructed, and interpretive work continues. Living history demonstrations are scheduled periodically during the summer.

Living history demonstrations are staged periodically at the fort ... the blacksmith and gunsmith set up at the Armorer's Shop, while other volunteers interpret military and civilian activities in various rooms along the west barracks wall. The carpenter and cooper also have workshops there, and at times, the Indian Agent can be found in his quarters at the Council House. General information and interpretive schedules are available at the visitor center. Northeast of the visitor center is a statue display area of the "First Council" depicting the 1804 meeting between Lewis & Clark and the Oto-Missouria.

The grounds are open year-round, and the Harold W. Andersen visitor center is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the summer. There is a small picnic area near the fortification parking area. While no food or lodging is available at the park, camping, restaurants and overnight accommodations are available nearby. Tour groups should contact the superintendent's office in advance to make special arrangements.

Please do not smoke on the trail or in the buildings. Grassland fires are especially dangerous and spread rapidly. Do not disturb the archaeological remains or take historic objects. Pets are permitted on the grounds but must be kept on a leash.

The Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center is open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The visitor Center is also open on weekends only from May 2 through May 17 and September 12 through October 18. Park grounds open at 8 a.m. daily.

Living History Schedule for 2009, with interpretation hours from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., as follows: Living History schedule with interpretations from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as follows: May 2 & 3; June 6 & 7; July 4 & 5; August 1 & 2; September 5 & 6; October 3 & 4. On these days, volunteers portray life at an 1820's military fort. The Candlelight Tour will be November 7 and pre-registration is required. For further information please call or email the park. If you wish to book a site tour outside of the normal operating time, please contact the park.