Part of our in-depth series exploring Sioux Nation Forts
Fort Totten State Historic Site
P.O. Box 224
Fort Totten ND 58335
Phone: 701-766-4441
[email protected]
Fort Totten served American Indian policy from 1867 to 1959. Constructed as a military post, it became an Indian boarding school, Indian health care facility, and a reservation school.
Initially, the fort policed the surrounding reservation. The soldiers enforced the peace, guarded overland transportation routes, and aided Dakota (Sioux) who lived near Devils Lake after 1867. Fort Totten was decommissioned in 1890.
On January 5th, 1891 the former post became the property of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The post served as an Indian boarding school until 1959. Academic and vocational training prepaNative American youth for life off the reservation. Enrollment sometimes topped 400. After independent tribal government was established, a community school operated in the buildings from 1940 to 1959.
Visitors center and buildings open from May 16th through September 15th, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CST). Adjacent parking, seventeen original buildings, interpretive center, Pioneer Daughters' Museum, modern facilities, limited ADA accessibility. There is an admission fee.
Admission
Adults: $6.00
Children (6-15): $3.00
School Groups: $1.00 per student (complimentary chaperones)
Bus Tours: $40.00 per group of 10
Hours
Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day, 9:00 a.m.--5:00 p.m. (other times may be available by appointment). The grounds are open year round.
For information on lodging and events please visit Totten Trail Inn and the State Historical Society's Program Schedule.