What it must have looked like - Public Domain image, National Parks Gallery

What must the fort have looked like when approached on the Missouri River from the west? This view offers a hint. The picture is taken from down in the former channel of the Missouri River when the post was in active operation, 1828-1867. At this time of year, in January, the river's surface would have been frozen solid, which allowed individuals to approach from across the river on foot. Then, no trees would have been present along the river bank in front of the fort. A boat dock would have been there instead.