Travel 200 years back in time and experience history on the Great Plains at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park!

Living History events occur from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the first weekend of each month between May and October. Ongoing demonstrations featuring military and civilian life of the 1820s will occur throughout the park. Reenactors portray fur traders, coopers, blacksmiths, carpenters, tinsmiths, weavers and other period trades. There will also be potato planting demonstrations. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the reenactors.

The theme for the weekend of June 6-7, 2026 is “The death of Mrs. Eliza Woolley and Indian Sub-Agent Peter Wilson“.

Schedule

10:15 a.m. (Sunday only) – Church on Sunday North Barrack
10 a.m. –  The Troop Roll call, inspection, raise colours, and morning gun (Flagpole)
10:15 a.m. – “Native Plants Through the Seasons of the Prairie” by Lisa Grabenbauer & Cathy Prettyman (Visitor Center)
11 a.m. – Plant walk—meet at the Visitor Center
11:30 a.m. – On-going exhibit at the Council House on the “Journey of Eliza Woolley” made possible with donations from Nebraska State Historical Society & David Genoways
12:00 p.m. – Noon gun
12:30 a.m. – Honorary guard for Mr. Peter Wilson at the Monument to the Deceased
1 p.m. – Vaccination scenario “Death on the Plains” in front of the Hospital (West barrack)
2 p.m. – Talk on “Embalming in the History” by Kevin Arnold. (Council House)
3 p.m. – On-going interpretations at the blacksmith shop, Sutler store, Council House, etc.
4 p.m. – The Retreat (Roll call, Inspection, Evening gun)
Flag is lowered; Call in sentries–cease all challenging. End of public hours.

Visitor Center Admission

-Adults (13 & up): $5

-Children 3-12: $1

-2 and under: Free

A valid Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles to enter the park and can be purchased at the site.

For more information, please contact the park at [email protected] or (402) 468-5611 or visit https://outdoornebraska.gov/location/fort-atkinson/.