Learn about the fur trade at Confluence Learning Lab

The Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center near Williston will host its February Confluence Learning Lab on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2-3 p.m. Focusing on the 19th-century fur trade, the free family-friendly program is open to all ages.

This hands-on, interactive learning lab examines trade, travel and daily life at the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence during the fur trade era. Learn how the fur trade operated, who took part in it, and why the confluence served as a key crossroads of rivers, cultures, and commerce. 

Handle reproduction trade items, compare commonly exchanged goods, and discuss their value and purpose. Step into the role of traders, barter items, and experience how trade networks functioned during an interactive trading game. All materials are provided.

This event is part of the ND250 commemoration celebrating our country’s 250th birthday.

Fort Buford State Historic Site and the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center are managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota. The Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center is open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and closed Sunday-Monday. Fort Buford is closed for the season. For more information, contact Outreach Coordinator Nicholas Kusnierek, shsbuford@nd.gov or 701.572.9034. All times listed are Central time. Find information about upcoming programs of the State Historical Society at history.nd.gov/events.