If you've ever seen Night at the Museum, you know that history really does come alive! At Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in Mandan, North Dakota, the year 1875 lives and breathes. The photo above is a recreation of General Custer's home while here at the fort. Tours of his home are conducted by interpreters in period dress, set back in time to 1875, retold in first person narrative. So don't answer that ringing in your pocket, because there was no such thing back then. Caleb and Chris explored the fort on their bikes and left me home to rest with the dogs. They visited the barracks and Caleb thinks that looks like a great place for a summer camp! 
Also on the grounds is the On-A-Slant Indian Village. The Mandan Indians occupied this area at a much different time than General Custer, however.
A view across the grassy field reveals our site... for $20 a night with water and electric. Here is the entrance gate conversation on a Thursday afternoon...Gate attendant: Do you have a reservation?
Chris: No.
Gate attendant: Well... I only have primitive sites.
Chris: That's fine.
Gate attendant: How long will you be staying?
Chris: 1 night
Gate attendant: OH! Well then I can put you in a reserved site for the night.
Magically sites appeared and we were able to get a site with water and electric. There are Pioneer activities at the park this weekend and many nearby residents are descending upon the park for the weekend fun.
This park sits on the confluence of the Heart and Missouri Rivers. They flooded earlier this Spring and flooded the park... but there is no evidence to be seen of the flood waters! The park looks great! We are on our way to the Enchanted Highway today to make our way to South Dakota!
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