Fort Abercrombie

Fort Abercrombie, the first United States military post to be established in what is now North Dakota, was authorized at this point in 1857 and was named in honor of Lt. Col. John J. Abercrombie, The extensive trade between Canada and the Northwest with St. Paul and other Minnesota points necessitated the construction of military posts along the route. The rapid settlement of Minnesota and the proposed settlement of the areas the Red River Valley made it necessary to construct a post on the Red River. Being at the head of navigation on the Red River, this site a logical point for the location of a military post.

Th protection provided by Fort Abercrombie enabled new trade routes to be opened and old routes maintained through what would have been hostile Indian country. During the Minnesota uprising of 1862, Fort Abercrombie played a prominent part, giving protection to white settlers and traders in the vicinity of the fort. On two occasions the fort was attacked by Indians and was under siege for 60 days. Although the attacks severe the Indians were beaten off and held at bay until reinforcements arrived from Fort Snelling.

Fort Abercrombie continued to serve the Northwest until the rich lands of the Red River Valley were occupied by white settlers. The usefulness of the post then gradually lessened and the fort was abandoned.