7 Historical Sites of Montana at Fort Benton

If you’re looking to dive into the heart of Montana's history, Fort Benton should be at the top of your list. Known as the “Birthplace of Montana,” this classic town is home to many fascinating historical sites that paint a picture of the early American frontier.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique getaway, Fort Benton offers a captivating journey back in time. And after a day of exploring, there’s no better place to unwind than the Grand Union Hotel, a historic landmark in its own right. Here are seven historical sites in Fort Benton that you won’t want to miss.

1. Grand Union Hotel

Before you set out to explore the town’s rich past, make sure to check in at the Grand Union Hotel, one of the oldest operating hotels in Montana. Opened in 1882, this beautifully restored Victorian hotel is a testament to Fort Benton’s thriving days as a trade and steamboat hub. 

Its varied history includes decades of thriving prosperity mingled with periods of closure and disrepair. As it changed hands again and again over the years, each new owner made necessary repairs and added their own additions and improvements. The result is a modern tapestry that recounts the history of Fort Benton in every brick.

2. Old Fort Benton

A visit to Fort Benton wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Old Fort Benton, a reconstructed version of the original trading post established in 1846 by the American Fur Company. This fort was pivotal during the fur trade era, serving as a center for commerce between trappers, traders, and Native American tribes. 

Today, you can explore the fort’s bastions, trading rooms, and exhibits that bring Montana's early frontier history to life. This must-see landmark gives you a firsthand look at the foundation of the town and its role in shaping the historical sites of Montana.

3. The Museum of the Northern Great Plains

Another highlight in Fort Benton is the Museum of the Northern Great Plains, which provides insight into Montana’s agricultural history and homesteading heritage. The museum’s vast collection of vintage farming equipment, exhibits on rural life, and stories of the pioneers who settled the Northern Plains make it a captivating stop. 

As you explore the Museum of the Northern Great Plains, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for how agriculture has shaped the region’s economy and culture over the centuries.

4. The Lewis and Clark Memorial

The Lewis and Clark Memorial is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the famous expedition that helped map the American West. Located along the Missouri River in Fort Benton, the memorial commemorates the passage of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark through the region. Their journey across the uncharted wilderness paved the way for exploration and settlement. 

The connection to these adventurers that permeates the memorial will give you a new appreciation for the brave souls who forever changed the course of U.S. history.

5. Chouteau County Courthouse

For architecture buffs, the Chouteau County Courthouse is a must-see. Built in 1884, this Romanesque-style courthouse is one of Montana’s oldest continuously used courthouses. This still-functioning government building is a beautiful representation of late 19th-century architecture. As you step inside, prepare to be transported to a time when Fort Benton was an influential center of law and governance in the region.

6. The Shep Memorial

Fort Benton is also home to a touching piece of local lore: the Shep Memorial. This monument honors Shep, a loyal dog who faithfully waited for his deceased owner’s return at the train station for nearly six years. 

His story of loyalty captured the hearts of many, and today, the memorial stands as a symbol of devotion. Visiting the Shep Memorial offers a glimpse into the warmth and spirit of this small community, which has cherished the tale of Shep for decades.

7. Fort Benton Bridge

The Fort Benton Bridge, built in 1888, spans the Missouri River and serves as a reminder of the town’s prominence during the steamboat era. Also known as the “Old Bridge,” it was one of the first steel bridges across the river and played a crucial role in connecting Fort Benton to other parts of Montana. 

Today, it’s a popular spot for taking in scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape. The bridge is an iconic symbol of Fort Benton’s historic role in transportation and trade.