Fort Belle Fontaine

This former military base was the first of its kind west of the Mississippi - in what was then the newly purchased Louisiana Territory. It was an important trading fort in the 1800s as it supplied much needed victuals and goods to travelers. Today, the elegantly aged stone walls rising out of the green meadow seem more suited to a fairy tale world. The ruins are not part of the original structure, but were instead added later to support amenities such as fireplaces and bath houses. The fort is located on the banks of the Missouri and can be reached via Route 367 to New Jamestown Rd. Make a left Bellefontaine Rd. and follow it to your destination. (Submitted by Ken Bleek)