Fort Carroll (Montana) facts for kids

Fort Carroll, also known as Carroll Landing Post, was an important spot on the Missouri River in what is now Fergus County, Montana. It was set up in 1874 as a place for trading and for steamboats to dock. For a couple of summers, in 1874 and 1875, soldiers from the 7th U.S. Infantry were stationed there. A small town called Carroll also grew up around this busy landing. However, by 1882, both the fort and the town were no longer used.

Fort Carroll: A Frontier Outpost

What Was Fort Carroll?

Fort Carroll was built in 1874 by a company called Diamond R Transportation. Its main purpose was to be a trading post and a place where steamboats could stop along the Missouri River. It was meant to take the place of an older fort, Fort Sheridan. It also aimed to compete with Fort Benton, which was a big center for transportation and supplies at the time.

For two summers, in 1874 and 1875, soldiers from the 7th U.S. Infantry were sent to Fort Carroll. They helped protect the area and keep things running smoothly. However, over time, fewer and fewer boats and traders came to Fort Carroll. Because of this, the fort and the small town that had grown around it were completely abandoned in 1882.

Where Was It Located?

Fort Carroll was located right on the Missouri River. Today, this area is part of Fergus County, Montana. It's about 24.9 miles (40.1 km) south of a small, unincorporated community called Zortman. There's also a ghost town nearby called Valentine, Montana.