New Exhibit Opens In Sutler’s Store

After seven years of research and planning and six weeks of maintenance, installation and documentation, the new Fort Laramie Sutler’s Store exhibit is open and ready for the 2007 summer season.

Based on original store inventories and first-hand accounts from 1851 to 1868, the new exhibit represents the stock and layout of the store as it stood in 1861. The exhibit is located in the original Post Sutler’s Store, one of two buildings constructed by the U.S. Army in1849.

The work was completed by staff from the park and from Harper’s Ferry Service Center, including recently retired NPS historian Jerry Greene. The exhibit displays over 1100 artifacts, most new reproductions, which include trade beads, axle grease, canned lobster and cologne. The inventory reflects the different customers that came to the Sutler’s Store in the 1850s and 1860s.

The post sutler sold to and traded with the U.S. Army, Native Americans, westward-bound emigrants, and fur traders. His clientele included Kit Carson, Jim Bridger, William T. Sherman, Philip H. Sheridan, Spotted Tail and Red Cloud.

Fort Laramie served as the main supply point on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails and as the logistical center for the U.S. Army on the Northern Plains. It includes over 800 acres and over thirty historic structures and ruins. Nine of the structures are restored, furnished and open to the public year round.

For more information contact  Fort Laramie National Historic Site at 307-837-2221.