Fort Dauphin (Manitoba) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Dauphin |
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| Near Winnipegosis, Manitoba | |
Fort Dauphin Museum
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| Type | Fort |
| Site information | |
| Controlled by | France, Canada |
| Official name: Fort Dauphin National Historic Site of Canada | |
| Designated: | 1943 |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1741 |
| In use | 1741- |
| Materials | Wood |
Fort Dauphin was a historic trading post built in 1741. It was located near Winnipegosis, Manitoba, in what is now Canada. The fort was built under the direction of Pierre Gaultier de La Vérendrye. He was an important French explorer and military leader in the western parts of North America.
The fort was named after the Dauphin, who was the prince next in line to become king of France. Its location was very important. It sat between the Assiniboine River and the Saskatchewan River. This made it a great spot for trade and travel.
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Why Was Fort Dauphin Built?
A Key Trading Spot
Fort Dauphin was built for several reasons. One main reason was to help with the fur trade. This was a huge business at the time. European traders wanted furs from animals like beavers. They traded these furs for goods with First Nations people.
The fort's location was perfect for this. It allowed traders to connect with different Indigenous groups. It also helped France expand its control and influence in the western regions.
Two Forts, One Name
The First Fort (1741)
The first Fort Dauphin was built in 1741. It was part of a network of forts set up by La Vérendrye. These forts helped France control the fur trade routes. They also helped explorers map out new territories.
The Second Fort (1767)
Later, in 1767, another Fort Dauphin was built. This second fort was located on the north shore of Lake Dauphin. This is how both the fort and the lake ended up with the same name.
This later fort was built by French fur traders. They were no longer under direct military command. It was common for forts to move locations. Traders would move them to find better spots for trade. They also moved to be closer to different First Nations communities. This helped them keep the fur trade going strong.
A National Historic Site
The original site of Fort Dauphin near Winnipegosis is very important. In 1943, it was recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada. This means it's a special place that tells an important part of Canada's history. These sites are protected so people can learn about the past.
