gingras trading post state historic site

Fascinating that the trading post and it's buildings still exist after more than one hundred years. Met excellent local interpreter there. Not only do you note cultural history, but natural history as well, as you can see the original banks of the river/lake there as well. The trading post is definitely off the beaten path, but worth the visit, if you're a history buff, like we are.

I had seen the sign for the Trading Post many times, but didn't realize how historic it was. This is good for a quick visit (plan for less than an hour, unless the tour guides start chatting you up). The site features the oldest buildings in North Dakota with great Metis history. Manitobans have a special connection because Monsieur Gingras used to be friends with Louis Riel. Cool stuff.

The staff person on duty when we visited was very friendly and gave us a very nice tour. The buildings have been very nicely reconstructed. It seems like some of the staff works harder at their cleaning and maintenance responsibilities than others. If you are interested in the fur trade, or in the history of the Metis people in the area, this is a very interesting stop. Otherwise, there is not much to see.