Fort Dilts Historic Site

At this site in September 1864, an immigrant train under the command of Capt. James L. Fisk, bound for the gold fields of Montana, was besieged by hostile Sioux Indians despite having an armed escort of 50 U.S. Cavalrymen for its protection. To defend themselves, the wagon train, and their stock, the travelers built a breastwork of prairie sod that enabled them to resist attacks for 14 days until a rescue party conducted them to Fort Rice. A number of civilians and 8 of the 50 members of the cavalry detachment were killed. The fort was named for Jefferson Dilts, who died while gallantly defending the immigrant train.

Rhame, North Dakota · United States