Fort Osage was the second U.S. outpost built in the Louisiana Purchase. The site, overlooking the bends and currents of the Missouri River, was first noted by Lewis and Clark on their Voyage of Discovery as a likely spot for a fort. Clark said in his journal, "a high commanding position, more than 70 feet above high-water mark, and overlooking the river, which is here but of little depth." Four years later, Clark returned to design and build this outpost, which remained the westernmost government presence until 1818. During its nineteen years of existence, Fort Osage received explorers and dignitaries, trappers, trades and the great Native American leaders. Today's Fort is a reconstruction from original plans still in existence in Washington, D.C .

    Fort Osage is the eighth Historic Site on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Established in 1978, by the United Sates Congress, the trail spans the more than 8000 miles that The Corps of Discovery traveled over their 2 year, 4 months, and 10 days dramatic exploration.

    Fort Osage is about an hour east of Kansas City.  It makes a natural starting point for a teacher who wants to do a comprehensive study of the spots noted by Lewis and Clark as they traveled through the area on the way out and the way back.   The fort has announced plans to build a Lewis and Clark Education center for the Bicentennial, so watch their web site for news.
 

    Besides the fort, the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence offers a look at the settlers who followed in the wake of Lewis and Clark.  If you plan to have your students visit  area sites the the entire Lewis and Clark trip during the school year, you will end up at Fort Leavenworth.  There you will see the cut where settlers who left Independence left the river for the trails west.

    Fort Osage offers a variety of activities for students.  The fort itself will take some time to tour, and there is a path that leads to the river - close enough to feel its might, yet far enough away for journaling without getting wet.

    Fort Osage offers another opportunity for students to learn about the native Americans in the area at the time the Corps of Discovery came down the river.  The Osage Indians traded with the white settlers in the region.

    The fort has a strong education program, so call ahead and see what is available before you plan your trip.  There is a picnic area at the fort.