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Where History Comes to Life

Fort Belmont, located just off I-90 in Jackson, Minnesota, is a powerful tribute to the determination and resilience of early settlers on the Minnesota frontier. Originally built in response to danger and uncertainty, Fort Belmont was not a military post but a civilian refuge. Its story begins in 1856, when the Wood brothers—William, George, and Charles—arrived from Indiana to establish a trading post near the Des Moines River. The area, initially called Springfield, was later renamed Jackson County. The settlement endured food shortages, brutal winters, and escalating tensions with local Dakota tribes, most notably resulting in the deadly Inkpaduta attack in 1857. Survivors fled, and for a time, the area was abandoned.

Why Fort Belmont Was Built

After the Civil War, pioneers returned with fresh hope. But in August 1862, tragedy struck again when thirteen settlers were killed near Belmont Township during the U.S.-Dakota Conflict. That event triggered the construction of a log fort and stockade in 1864—an 18-by-26-foot cabin surrounded by a defensive wall. It offered shelter and protection for settlers in what was then still considered a dangerous region. This civilian-built fort became a symbol of unity, survival, and determination in the face of hardship.

Relocation and Restoration

The original fort site sat roughly 2.5 miles from today’s location. To preserve its history and make it more accessible, the community worked together to relocate and reconstruct the site in 2004. The current location—right at the junction of Highway 71 and I-90—offers travelers and history lovers a rare chance to step back into the 1800s. The new Fort Belmont site faithfully replicates the original fort while expanding to include additional historical structures and interpretive exhibits.

Incredible Structures and Authentic Artifacts

Fort Belmont is not your average museum. While it includes accurate replicas of key buildings, most of the site is filled with authentic structures and artifacts donated by local families. The 1860s-era log cabin and stockade serve as the centerpiece, but you’ll also find a working blacksmith shop, a sod house built in 2000 to show frontier ingenuity, and the 1873 Lysgard farmhouse furnished with period-accurate items. Another highlight is the 1902 Delafield Church, still used for summer services and weddings. There’s also a functioning grist mill, where corn drying, shelling, and grinding demonstrations are regularly offered.

The museum houses an impressive collection of tools, housewares, medical gear, wagons, and pioneer-era items—all locally sourced and deeply meaningful. The tall watchtower at the site offers the kind of elevated view that settlers once used to scout for danger along the Des Moines River valley.

The People Behind the Fort

The revival and preservation of Fort Belmont have been made possible by dedicated volunteers and community members who see this site not just as a museum, but as a living classroom. Originally driven by the legacy of the Woods brothers and other pioneer families, today’s Fort Belmont is operated by Fort Belmont Junction Inc., a nonprofit organization. Local historians, many with family ties to the area, are on-site throughout the open season. What makes a visit even more special is the willingness of these experts to share stories, answer questions, and provide personal guided tours. Whether you spend thirty minutes or three hours, they’ll make sure you leave with a deeper appreciation of the past.

A Harvest Hosts Location—Perfect for RV Travelers and Mini-T Campervan Owners

Fort Belmont is also a proud member of the Harvest Hosts network, making it a great overnight stop for those traveling in self-contained RVs or compact campervans like the Mini-T. With its easy access off I-90, level parking, and welcoming environment, it offers not only a fascinating place to explore but also a peaceful and convenient place to stay. For Mini-T Campervan travelers seeking meaningful places to stop between destinations, Fort Belmont is an excellent choice.

When to Visit and What to Expect

Fort Belmont is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with hours typically running Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by suggested donation—$8 for adults, $2.50 for students, and free for children under five. Special events like Pioneer Days bring the site to life with reenactments, blacksmith demonstrations, live music, and food. Summer Sunday services at the historic church are also held, drawing both locals and visitors.

A Trip or Stop Worth Taking

Fort Belmont is more than just a stop along the highway—it’s a destination that brings the story of early Minnesota to life with integrity, care, and a deeply personal touch. From the authentic structures and artifacts to the passionate volunteers and knowledgeable historians who preserve and share its legacy, every aspect reflects a deep respect for the region’s past. Whether you're exploring for the day in your Mini-T Campervan or crossing the country in your RV, Fort Belmont offers a meaningful, educational, and unforgettable experience that’s well worth your time.

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