Fort Mandan and Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center [ND]

Description

The Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived at the Mandan-Hidatsa Indian villages on the Upper Missouri River on October 25, 1804. They found the Mandan people very hospitable and decided to remain at this wintering site until the spring thaw when they would resume their up-river journey. On November 3, William Clark made a simple entry in his journal, "We commence building our cabins." These cabins formed part of an enclosure that was christened Fort Mandan in honor of their hosts. As it turned out, Fort Mandan was occupied longer than any of the three winter posts used by the expedition. Reconstructed Fort Mandan rests in the riparian forests of the Missouri River. The refurnished rooms of this full-size replica depict the equipage of the Lewis and Clark Expeditio. On-site interpreters provide programs and year-round tours of Lewis and Clark's 1804–1805 wintering post. The Interpretive Center provides an overview of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, with special emphasis on the time spent at Fort Mandan. The displays include Native American artifacts, a buffalo robe visitors will be able to try on, as well as a "cradle-board" much like the one Sakakawea may have used to carry her baby. An authentic wood canoe carved from the trunk of a large cottonwood tree demonstrates the winter preparations the Expedition made while at Fort Mandan.

The site offers exhibits, tours, and occasional recreational and educational events.

Miamisburg Mound [OH]

Description

The Miamisburg Mound is the largest conical burial mound in the state of Ohio and possibly in the eastern U. S. Archaeological investigations of the surrounding area suggest that it was constructed by the prehistoric Adena Indians (800 BC–AD 100). Built on a 100-foot-high bluff, the mound measures 877 feet in circumference. It was originally more than 70 feet high. Visitors may climb the 116 steps from its base to the summit for a view of the surrounding park.

The site is open to the public.

Website does not specify any interpretive services available at the site.

Fort Rice State Historic Site [ND]

Description

This site preserves remaining vestiges of a military post established in 1864 by General Alfred Sully to supply his campaign into western Dakota and to protect traffic on the Missouri River, a function the fort continued until replaced by Fort Yates in 1877. There is a marker on the site.

The site is open to the public.

Website does not specify any interpretive services available at the site.

Lake Jessie State Historic Site [ND]

Description

In 1839, the Nicollet-Fremont expedition camped here; Isaac I. Stevens and his party stayed here during a survey of a proposed railroad route in the 1850s; and the site was also used by James L. Fisk and his wagon trains bound for the Montana gold fields. There is a marker on the site.

The site is open to the public.

Website does not specify any interpretive services available at the site.

High Plains Historical Society and Museum

Description

Visitors to the Society's Museum can learn about Nebraska's early pioneers and life on the American Prairie. The Museum offers displays on and including authentic pioneer artifacts from the 1870s, the history of the American Railroad, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and more. Political exhibits cover Senator George W. Norris and the three former Governors from McCook: Frank B. Morrison, Ralph G. Brooks, and U.S. Senator E. Benjamin Nelson. An extensive collection of photographs offers visitors a glance into Nebraska history.

The museum offers exhibits.

Cannot find a website.

Father Marquette Memorial Scenic Site [MI]

Description

This historic state park hosts the national memorial that honors the Jesuit priest who established Michigan's first permanent settlement. Today, Father Marquette is recognized as one of the great explorers of the North American continent. On a rise overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, the Father Marquette National Memorial pays homage to this 17th-century missionary-explorer and the meeting of French and Native American cultures deep in the North American wilderness. Current attractions include the National Memorial, an outdoor interpretive trail, picnicking, and a panoramic view of the Mackinac Bridge.

The site is open to the public.

Website does not specify any interpretive services beyond signage available at the site.