During the 1830s and 1840s, people from many different cultures traveled the Santa Fe Trail and met at Bent’s Old Fort. Known as the “Castle of the Plains,” Bent’s Old Fort was a private international trading fort located on the Arkansas River which quickly became a hub of commerce and trade.

Hunters and fur trappers were essential to the outpost, bringing food and pelts to keep the rich fur trade thriving. American Indian interpreters maintained communication with surrounding tribes, while … Read the entire post >