Explore Frontier History at Fort Buford’s Annual Encampment Near Williston, North Dakota

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the American frontier at the Fort Buford Sixth Infantry Annual Encampment, taking place on Saturday, July 13, and Sunday, July 14, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT at the Fort Buford State Historic Site near Williston. All ages are welcome to this free event, but children must have an adult with them.

“Step back in time with the sights, sounds, and stories of the past as reenactors bring the frontier era of the fort to vivid life,” said Ben Gjorven, president of the Fort Buford Sixth Infantry Regimental Association. “This encampment is a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of the Sixth Infantry Regiment soldiers stationed at Fort Buford in 1876.”

Once you arrive, you will discover a fort life's routines, traditions, and challenges through historical reenactments, drills, and demonstrations. Continuous fort life activities include water detail, wood cutting, barracks cleaning, uniform upkeep and polishing, and Army laundress demonstrations.

“Guests can engage in historical activities and learn about the significant role these soldiers played on the frontier,” said Site Supervisor Yvette Bachmeier.

The event schedule is packed with activities. On Saturday, July 13, highlights include Morning Colors and Morning Parade at 9 a.m., a Marching/Rifle Drill at 11 a.m., and a Rifle and Cannon Demonstration at 2 p.m. Afternoon activities feature Signal Corps Communication, Wet Plate Photography, and Laundress Demonstrations at 2:30 p.m., concluding with Mail Call at 4 p.m. On Sunday, July 14, visitors can begin their day with the Morning Colors and Morning Parade at 9 a.m. and a Skirmish Drill (Bayonet Drill) at 11 a.m. You had me at cannon demonstration!

Fort Buford, established to protect overland and river routes used by westward immigrants, played a crucial role on the northern Plains from 1866 to 1895. It is notably where Hunkpapa Sioux leader Sitting Bull surrendered to the U.S. government in 1881.

For more information, contact Yvette Bachmeier at 701.572.9034 or shsbuford@nd.gov. The Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center, part of the Fort Buford State Historic Site, is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through September 1. Click here for more details on upcoming programs.