The mountain man named Jim Bridger began this fort as a trading post in 1842. It was one of the most important outfitting points for emigrants along the Oregon trail. It was one of the main hubs of westward expansion used by mountain men, Indians, emigrants and Mormon Pioneers, the U.S.Army, Pony Express, Overland Stage and Union Pacific Railroad.
Mormon settlement near Fort Bridger led to tensions between the Mormon authorities and the federal government and did not end well. The buildings were burned and cattle were stampeded. After the "Mormon War" ended, Fort Bridger was later rebuilt and served as a station on the Pony Express, and Overland Stage Route and the California Trail.
The buildings have been rebuilt to restore the complex.
It is fun to see the authentic period items and the costumed personnel.
Fort Bridger was also an army post. They came up with a much needed punishment for petty crimes.
Just imagine sitting on this thing for a long time😖
The offender was made to sit on this "punishment horse" for many long hours in full public display. This acted as a deterrent for the crimes committed.
The original stockade fence for the trading post.
This is how the fur traders stretched the skins for transport.
The blacksmith shop
An ordinary day in the Fort
Gosh it looks like you are having so much fun
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