Cabanne's Trading Post facts for kids

Cabanne's Trading Post was a busy place for trading furs. It started in 1822 near what is now Dodge Park in North Omaha, Nebraska. The American Fur Company built it and first called it Fort Robidoux. It was named after a well-known fur trader, Joseph Robidoux.

Soon, people started calling it the French Company or Cabanné's Post. This was because of its manager, Jean-Pierre Cabanné. He came from a French family in St. Louis, Missouri. The post was very important for trade and for talking with Native American tribes. It was located between other important forts.

Today, the place where the trading post once stood is called the Cabanné Archaeological Site. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. This means it is a special historical place that needs to be protected.

A Look Back at Cabanne's Trading Post

How the Trading Post Began

Cabanne's Trading Post opened in 1822. It was a key spot for the fur trade in the American West. Traders would exchange goods with Native American tribes for animal furs. These furs were then sent to other places to be made into hats and clothing.

The post was in a great location. It was close to Fort Atkinson, a military fort. Cabanne's Post helped supply Fort Atkinson with food and other items. This steady business helped the trading post grow and become successful.

Important Visitors and Leaders

In 1823, a famous explorer named Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied visited the post. He wrote good things about it and praised Jean-Pierre Cabanné. Cabanné was a skilled manager. He hired many traders and trappers for the American Fur Company. This company, led by John Jacob Astor, became very powerful in the fur trade.

One of the people Cabanné hired was Joseph Marie La Barge. He later became famous himself. Cabanné managed the post for many years, until 1833.

Changes and the End of an Era

By 1833, Cabanne's Post had many buildings. There were storehouses, shops, and houses. After Cabanné left, Joshua Pilcher took over. He managed the post for several years.

However, the fur trade started to slow down. Around 1840, the American Fur Company moved its operations. They combined with another post called Fontenelle's Post in Bellevue, Nebraska. Later, Peter A. Sarpy managed Fontenelle's Post.

Cabanne's Site Today

The original site of Cabanne's Trading Post is north of Dodge Park near Florence. It is still recognized as an important historical place. The Cabanné Archaeological Site is part of the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a featured stop on the Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway. This byway helps people explore historical places.