Fort Belle Fontaine

Fort Belle Fontaine stands near the Missouri River, featuring limestone stairs and structures built during the 1930s Works Progress Administration period.

Established in 1805, this installation marked the first United States military base west of the Mississippi River, functioning as a trading post until 1808.

The fort served as a meeting point between Native American tribes, French traders, Spanish merchants, and American settlers during the early 1800s.

Visitors can access the 305-acre park through marked trails that connect various historical structures and provide views of the Missouri River.

The site includes an old military cemetery where thirty military officers and one hundred enlisted soldiers rest in unmarked graves from the 1800s.

Location: St. Louis County

Inception: August 10, 1805

Part of: Fort Belle Fontaine County Park, Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Phone: +13146158800

Website: https://stlouisco.com/parksandrecreation/parkpages/fortbellefontaine

GPS coordinates: 38.82740,-90.21550

Latest update: March 2, 2025 20:15