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Fort Seward’s Covered Wagon Train exists to preserve and share the pioneering spirit of North Dakota through immersive, hands-on historical experiences. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and connect people of all ages by traveling like early settlers—fostering appreciation for our heritage, the land, and each other through community, storytelling, and adventure.
Our mission statement
about fort seward, inc
Fort Seward, Inc. is a nonprofit organization established in 1969. This organization was formed by local citizens whom wanted to preserve, protect and promote the history of the Fort Seward Infantry Post, Jamestown, as well as, the rest of North Dakota.
How did it start?
The Fort Seward Wagon Train began as a onetime experience in 1969, but the organizers thought the experience so worthwhile that a wagon train has been organized annually since the first one. Now Fort Seward, Inc. considers the wagon train a project of great benefit to those who wish to relive the pioneer family experience.
Where does the Fort Seward Train start?
The wagon train starts at the historic Fort Seward Park, overlooking the city of Jamestown, ND. The Fort Seward Park was once the site of a U.S. Infantry Post.
When does the Fort Seward Wagon Take Place?
Each year the Fort Seward Wagon Train takes place in June. The week may vary but typically the last week of June.
Who is the Wagon Train Suitable for?
Anyone who is interested! The wagon train welcomes small groups like 4H, girl & boy scouts and other organizations. There is no age restriction, but require those under 18 to be accompanied by a responsible adult. No pets allowed.
What to expect
About the Wagon experience:
The wagon train consists mainly of canvas-topped, flare boxed, wooden wheeled wagons, just like those seen jostling about in western movies. The flare box wagon was the wagon of choice, for those pioneer farmers that came into the Dakotas, as they could later be used to haul the harvest from the prairie. An experienced "teamster" is assigned to drive each wagon. Wagons are powered by teams of draft horses and sometimes mules. Most common draft horses used during the wagon Train are the breeds of Belgiums and Percherans. The wagon train is equipped with a "chuck wagon" which, needless to say, becomes the center of attention.
A Day on the Trail:
On the trail, the daily schedule begins early while the sun is still young. Breakfast is eaten, gear is packed, and the wagon train moves out. The wagons string out in a line, bordered by riders and walkers in small groups. The wagon train averages 3-4 miles per hour, depending on how "hard" everyone pushes up those steeper hills.
There is a noon stop for lunch.
In the evening the wagons are circled at our campsite. Horses are cared for while preparations for supper are made. At night camp, activities involving arts and crafts are a fun activities for all ages. Trail riders are encouraged to bring their musical instruments, craft material, etc., and to share them. Singing, skits, history talks and sharing stories around the campfire signal the end of the day
Each day you will have a responsibility as part of your role on the wagon train, children will also have their own role to fill.
History
The wagon train will stop at known historical sites, marked and unmarked along the way. Often there will be a few words on the significance of the site.
Crafts:
As mentioned the wagon train has crafting at night camp and a staff member will be there to guide you along some crafts that were once a part of pioneer life.
What to wear
What to Wear & Where to Find it:
It is required that men, women and children attire themselves in proper period clothing during the wagon train, in order to maintain the essential flavor and atmosphere. Examples of clothing can be seen in western movies and TV shows (Example: "Dr. Quinn"). Patterns may be obtained at fabric stores in clothes pattern books such as Simplicity, McCalls, etc.
Previous riders have found luck with amazon and etsy for proper pioneer clothing. Plain shirts without logos or designs, and soft pallet colors (true to the pioneers having no dyed clothing)
Men: Males must wear pioneer-western wear (vests, suspenders, and the like are encouraged).
Women: On the trail and when riding horses, women may wear jeans, however long dresses (aprons encouraged) and bonnets are must for the evening meal.
Children are included in these clothing requirements.
Hats - Western cowboy hats or pioneer era. Bonnets are a must for protection from the sun. Baseball style caps are not allowed.
Weather may vary - Weather changes drastically from nice and sunny to rainy and chilly. Pack for cool evenings and warm days.
We'll be in touch soon!
Thank you!