Fort Phil Kearny Grand Opening Brings Back Bozeman Trail Day

Fort Phil Kearny State Historic Site will celebrate the grand opening of its new permanent exhibits during Bozeman Trail Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday June 13. 

State Historic Site Superintendent Sharie Mooney Shada invited the public to the free grand opening event while appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse. 

The event also commemorates the 160th anniversary of Fort Phil Kearny and will feature living history activities including cavalry and infantry presentations, bugle demonstrations, tipi raising, period music and weapons demonstrations.

S. Shada

The day is designed to highlight the history of the Bozeman Trail and the fort as well showcase many items in the fort’s collection that until now, had little to no space to be displayed. 

Bringing the Indigenous tribes associated with the history of the area and the fort to life, Northern Cheyenne Interpretive Ranger Trey Wolfblack has recorded tribal stories that play along with images that Shada said captivate not only visitors but staff. 

S. Shada

And as the day comes to an end, the activities will continue with evening night sky viewing through telescopes.

S. Shada

The grand opening, anniversary and return of Bozeman Trail Day is free and open to the public and will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 13 at the Fort Phil Kearny Historic Site.