Fort Sisseton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Fort Sisseton
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Officers' quarters, photographed 2017
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 Location in South Dakota
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Britton, South Dakota |
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| Area | 35 acres (14 ha) |
| Built | 1864 |
| Website | Official website: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/fort-sisseton-historic-state-park/ |
| NRHP reference No. | 73001745 |
| Added to NRHP | May 10, 1973 |
Fort Sisseton is a very old military fort located near Britton, South Dakota. It was built way back in 1864. Today, it is known as Fort Sisseton Historic State Park. This means it's a special place that helps us learn about history.
The fort is so important that it is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This list includes buildings and sites that are very special to American history. Fort Sisseton still has 14 of its original buildings standing today.
The fort covers about 35 acres of land. It was added to the National Register in 1973. This listing included 15 buildings and 9 other important areas that help tell the fort's story.
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Fort Sisseton: A Historic Military Outpost
Fort Sisseton was first built by the United States Army in 1864. It served as a military outpost until 1889. Soldiers, including cavalry (soldiers on horseback) and infantry (soldiers who march), lived and worked there. Their job was to protect the area and keep peace.
Why the Name Changed
When it was first built, the fort was called Fort Wadsworth. But on August 29, 1876, its name was changed to Fort Sisseton. This happened because there was already another Fort Wadsworth in New York. The new name also honored the Sisseton band of Sioux people. They were Native Americans who helped the fort by providing scouts.
The Buffalo Soldiers Arrive
From 1884 to 1888, a special group of soldiers lived at Fort Sisseton. These were Companies E and G of the 25th Infantry Regiment. This unit was made up of African-American soldiers. They were often called "Buffalo Soldiers."
The Buffalo Soldiers were moved to Fort Sisseton in May 1884. They had been at another fort called Fort Hale. They stayed at Fort Sisseton for about four years before being moved to a different location. These brave soldiers played an important part in the fort's history.
Visiting Fort Sisseton Today
Today, Fort Sisseton is a fun place to visit and learn. Every year, on the first weekend of June, the park hosts a special festival. During this event, people dress up in old military uniforms. They act out what life was like at the fort long ago. There is also entertainment for everyone to enjoy. It's a great way to step back in time and experience history!
