Fort Dauphin

Fort Dauphin was a French trading post located where the Mossy River meets Lake Winnipegosis in Manitoba. The site contains wooden structures and archaeological remains that reveal how the original trading post was built and arranged.

Pierre Gaultier de La Verendrye established this trading post in 1741 as a strategic location between the Assiniboine and Saskatchewan Rivers. The site was relocated upriver in 1743 but continued to serve as an important trading center for the region.

The trading post brought together European fur traders and Indigenous peoples for commerce and exchange in a shared economic space. These interactions shaped how the region developed and connected different groups through business.

The site is designated as a National Historic Site where visitors can explore the remains and structures on the grounds. Plan your visit during warmer months and be prepared for wet terrain near the water.

The location was moved upriver in 1743 following attacks, yet it remained productive as a trading center despite the relocation. This shows how important the fort was that traders continued to operate from the new location.

Location: Winnipegosis

Inception: 1741

GPS coordinates: 51.65460,-99.92380

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:47