Watch the Fort Union Trading Post Orientation Film

The Most Important Trading Post Of Its Time

During Fort Union's 39 years of existence (1828 to 1867), it was a center of peaceful economic and social exchange between Northern Plains Tribes and other cultures. Fort Union was the longest-lasting trading post on the frontier. This film journeys through Fort Union's impact on the Upper Missouri River's historical and cultural landscape from pre-fort to current reconstruction. Subjects include how Fort Union enculturated into existing trade networks. Utilizing firsthand accounts and oral tradition from park affiliated tribes, historical records, archeology, and current historical understanding, this film, produced in 2017 is a great way to begin or end your visit to Fort Union. 

The orientation film is 9-minutes long and shows on-demand in the Bourgeois House Visitor Center Museum's video kiosk during regular open hours.

Details

Duration

9-9 Minutes

Activity

Park Film

Watch the orientation film and learn how Fort Union Trading Post became an epicenter for trade between tribes and European fur traders. Located at the confluence of the Yellowstone and the Upper Missouri river, the fort served as the premier trading post for beaver pelts and buffalo robes.

Age(s)

10 and Older

All ages welcome, but recommended understanding and comprehension age is 10 and above. 

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed in the Bourgeois House Visitor Center.

Service animals are permitted everywhere visitors are allowed at Fort Union Trading Post NHS, including the Bourgeois House Visitor Center.

Activity Fee

No

Fort Union Trading Post NHS is a fee-free site, no fees are charged for entering the site or to watch the Park Orientation Video. 

Location

Bourgeois House Visitor Center

The Visitor Center is located in the Bourgeois House, located in the center of the reconstructed Fort. 

Reservations

No

No reservations are needed to watch the Park Orientation Movie. The movie plays in the park museum on demand via a self-activating the movie player. 

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Park Orientation Video is available anytime the Bourgeois House Visitor Center is Open. 

Accessibility Information

Deaf / Hearing Loss

• Park Orientation Movie is closed captioned.

• Assistive listening devices that increase the volume of the film's narration and dialogue are available. Devices are available free of charge at the Front Desk in the Bourgeois House Visitor Center.

Blind / Low Vision

• Park Orientation Movie is audio described. Assistive listening devices are available for the audio described narration. Devices are available free of charge at the Front Desk in the Bourgeois House Visitor Center. 

Physical / Mobility

• The Visitor Center's main floor, including Museum with park videos, bookstore and restrooms allows access for a manual or motorized wheelchair or mobility device.

  • Front door of the Visitor Center measures 35 inches wide.

  • Door entering the museum is 35 inches wide.

• Seating in the form of folding chairs is available while watching park videos.

Service animals 

Service animals are permitted everywhere visitors are allowed at Fort Union Trading Post NHS, including the Bourgeois House Visitor Center.