Fort Atkinson was established in 1842 along the Turkey River to protect the Winnebagos from other Native American tribes; parts of it still remain. Originally there were 24 buildings and a stockade wall. The fort was abandoned in 1849, and sold to local settlers in 1855. Many of the buildings were destroyed or altered. The museum is located in the old barracks and is operated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. As you walk around the area you can look at other parts of the fort and the foundations of some army buildings that no longer exist. A Rendezvous is held the last full weekend in September that helps to portray life on a prairie fort.
Admission – None
Directions – 3 blocks north of State Highway 24
Hours – noon – 5:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Memorial Day weekend – Labor Day weekend
Credit Cards – None
Phone – (319) 425-4161
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