Apart from its connections to the Lewis & Clark expedition, Fort Osage is rich in history so much so that in 1961 it finally became registered as a historical landmark.

Built under the direction of General William Clark, joint commander of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, Fort Osage was established in 1808 as a military outpost in the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. The Fort’s purpose was to provide a military presence in the territory in order to assure Spain, France, and Great Britain that the United States meant to protect its territory by military strength and to establish healthy relations with the Native American population in the territory.

These days, however, Fort Osage provides an opportunity for visitors to tour the reconstructed site and experience living history. Each year, the Fort Osage Education Center provides educational programs to thousands of students.