Lower Fort Garry

Nestled along the banks of the Red River in Manitoba, Canada, Lower Fort Garry stands as a remarkable window into the country's fur trade era. This national historic site, operated as a museum, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back into the mid-19th century and experience life as it was on the Canadian frontier.

Constructed in the 1830s by the Hudson's Bay Company, Lower Fort Garry was built primarily of stone, a feature that distinguishes it from other fur trade posts of the period and has contributed to its remarkable state of preservation. The fort served as a trading post, a center of commerce, and a focal point for the community that thrived in its shadow.

Today, Lower Fort Garry is celebrated not just for its well-preserved architecture but also for the role it played in Canadian history. It was here, in 1871, that Treaty No. 1 was signed between Canada and the Anishinaabe and Swampy Cree of Manitoba, making it a site of profound historical significance.

The museum aspect of Lower Fort Garry brings history to life with costumed interpreters who guide visitors through restored buildings, including the Governor's House, the Big House, and the Furloft. These interpreters share stories and demonstrate traditional crafts, giving a tangible sense of the routines and rhythms of 19th-century life at the fort.

As you wander the expansive grounds, you can almost hear the echoes of bartered negotiations over beaver pelts and the rattle of Red River carts. Whether you're peering into the blacksmith's forge, marveling at the thick stone walls, or enjoying the serenity of the riverside, Lower Fort Garry offers an immersive and educational experience that connects the past to the present.