JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – An active military fort from 1872 to 1877, Fort Seward has become a tourist staple and historic stop in Jamestown.

North Dakota Tourism states that Fort Seward “now houses an interpretive center displaying artifacts excavated from the site’s archaeological digs. A new computer kiosk takes you on an audio-visual virtual tour of the site. The grounds are also home to a Veterans’ Memorial and scenic views of the James River Valley.”

Jenny Marks works at Fort Seward and says they have plans to add even more to the experiences of those who visit.

Marks says they’ve developed a point of interest map of the quartermile trail around the fort. She says the next step is to make the path handicap accessible. Another thing Marks says they’ll be planting a pumpkin patch on the Fort Seward property.

The Montpelier students will maintain the pumpkin patch, which is expected to be approximately 20×50 and right next to it will be two 12×12 gardens.

To support these projects, individuals will be raising funds through events and donations. The annual Big Guns of the Old West event on September 8th will also be a chance to raise money for the planned projects.

During the event, there will be demonstrations of a gatling gun, cannon, and classic weapons from the 1800’s.

Marks says there will be cooking, baking, soap making, butter making, quilting and more as well as live exhibits throughout the day. The event runs from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday, September 8th and freewill donations will be accepted.

For more on the event, like Fort Seward on Facebook or call 701-251-1875.

Listen to a full interview with Jenny Marks below: