Vol. 3 (1979)
Fort Union Nhs

Study of the Current and Historic Natural Resources of the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

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  • K. M. Weist,
  • P. B. Wilson,
  • J. H. Lowe,
  • E. E. Willard
K. M. Weist
University of Montana
P. B. Wilson
University of Montana
J. H. Lowe
University of Montana
E. E. Willard
University of Montana
DOI: https://doi.org/10.13001/uwnpsrc.1979.2157

Published 1979-01-01

Abstract

Fort Union Trading Post was one of the largest and most important fur posts on the Upper Missouri, described by Hiram Chittenden as "... the best built post on the Missouri, and with the possible exception of Bent's fort on the Arkansas, the best in the entire West" (1954:2:959). Fort Union was an important focal point for the Assiniboine, Cree, and Crow tribes who came there to trade, receive their annuities, and learn about White activities. The financial success of the post depended upon the hunt]ng and trapping efforts of these Indians who brought in bison robes and other animal pelts to trade for White-make goods. Thus, the success of the post was directly related to the natural resources of the area. Our research describes these resources-- the mammals, reptiles, birds, insects and plants--both at the present time (1979) and historically.

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