Background on the North West Company Fur Post and Visitor Center

The North West Company Fur Post is a reconstruction of a fur trading post as it was operated by trader John Sayer in 1804 on the Snake River, near Pine City, Minn. The Fur Post has been part of the historic sites network of the Minnesota Historical Society since 1970.

Why a Visitor Center?
The Visitor Center gives visitors a broad understanding of the fur trade and its impact on exploration and settlement of the region. It also provides public amenities, including educational facilities and modern restrooms.

Major features
Total finished square feet: 10,460

• Rotunda - a welcoming space featuring a 30-foot high stone fireplace, large windows overlooking Fur Post grounds.
• The Janet B. Johnson Exhibit Hall, named in honor of the late Janet B. Johnson, Minnesota state senator from North Branch who championed support for the new building in the legislature.
• Classroom space for use by community and school groups.
• Museum store
• Administrative and staff offices

Funding for construction and exhibits

• State: $2.0 million (Construction appropriation approved in 1998)
• Federal: $1.5 million

Hours and Admission

Location
Located about 60 miles north of St. Paul, 1.5 miles west of Interstate 35 at exit #169 on Pine County Highway 7.

Site manager
Patrick Schifferdecker. Telephone: 320-629-6356