History buffs in every state are eager to learn about their country's roots by visiting forts and battlefields. Minnesotans are no exception, and have the convenience of learning about America's westward expansion, right in their backyards. Fort Snelling was an important part of history as settlers moved west of the Mississippi River. Fort Snelling is located just west of the river, and was referred to as the "hub of the Upper Mississippi," according to historians at the Minnesota Historical Society. Native Americans and American fur traders used Fort Snelling as a central meeting place to trade and discuss political matters.
Historic Fort Snelling is located in modern day St. Paul, Minnesota, one of the "twin cities." State roads 5 and 55 meet up in close proximity to the Twin Cities International Airport, and that is where the fort's visitor's center lies. Visitors from out of town and within St. Paul alike can get to Fort Snelling easily by car, bus or train (called the light rail, or LRT). Those traveling from Minneapolis on public transportation are able to reach the fort by bus. Fort Snelling has ample parking for its patrons. The visitor's center is a 15 minute walk from parking and bus facilities.
Fort Snelling, named after Colonel Josiah Snelling, was built immediately after the War of 1812, between the years of 1819 and 1825. The fort was to be one of several forts and other structures that formed a chain throughout the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers. The fort was heavily populated with traders and military personnel from 1825 until the years before the Civil War as a place to restock supplies and rest for the night before continuing on their travels. In 1839, Fort Snelling was moved to what is now St. Paul, and was to become a large city. These plans were derailed when the Civil War began, and the fort continued to be a stopping-over place for military officers through World War II. Fort Snelling was restored and rebuilt after World War II and became a National Historical Landmark in 1960.
Historic Fort Snelling functions as a museum, detailing its rich history by opening its doors to the public. An art collection housing lithographs and other artwork shows visitors how the fort looked at various times during its early years. The greater Fort Snelling area of St. Paul also features the Fort Snelling Military Musem, as a tribute to the many military officers that passed through the fort throughout America's history. The military museum is home to a number of tanks and other vehicles, as well as firearms that have played a role in America's fight for freedom.
Historic Fort Snelling offers a variety of field trip opportunities and other programs that show 19th century living and history from a child's view. Children can live like a soldier did or like one of Minnesota's famed authors, Laura Ingalls Wilder, through programs at Fort Snelling. In addition to these special children's programs, the fort's History Center has events taking place throughout the year, all having to do with military history and life in the 1800s. All of the programs are in addition to the regular exhibits that are ongoing at Fort Snelling every day.
Fort Snelling is also home to one of Minnesota's state parks, which was created and named after the fort in 1961. Almost 3000 acres of land are full of hiking trails, a recreation area and a beach that showcase the beauty of this area of Minnesota. The Fort Snelling State Park is operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and offers educational programs throughout the year. On the grounds of the park is Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel, which is available for weddings and memorial services.
