Old Fort Niagara, NY

Not far from Niagara Falls is Old Fort Niagara, one of the prettiest forts you will ever see. The French built it in 1726, but wanted it to look like a ‘House of Peace’ instead of a fort, so as not to arouse the suspicions of the Iroquois. It was later taken by the British, then the Americans, and once again by the British. It was returned to the Americans at the end of the War of 1812. That was the fort’s last armed conflict, and since then has served as a barracks and training station.

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site

Seven Weeks Across America

Our first scheduled stop was at Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site in southern Colorado.  It's reconstructed from detailed measurements of a fur trading post from the 1840s.  It was very well done, and made an impressive sight rising from the plains.  Inside it was meticulously appointed in historic details, and outside oxen and horses and chickens roamed freely. 

There were some wonderful historic reenactors, like this fellow who was quite knowledgeable on the trading that took place among the settlers, the local Indian tribes, and folks traveling along the Santa Fe Trail.

Jose was tending the fire and made W an egg burrito, with fresh eggs from the chickens that were roaming around.  She is seasoning it with salt.