WILLISTON – The Fort Union Association has announced the acquisition of a historically-accurate, two-thirds-scale keelboat, “William. H. Ashley,” named after the frontiersmen who hastened exploration of the American West and revolutionized the fur trade by developing the rendezvous system.

The Fort Union Association plans to unveil the historically-accurate keelboat to the public during the Williston Band Day festivities May 11.

The fur trade of the early 1800s was defined by the extensive network of rivers that served as the lifelines of commerce. Before the age of railroads, keelboats were the workhorses of transportation, enabling fur traders to navigate the vast reaches of the Upper Missouri river system. Keelboats were ingeniously designed to haul several tons of freight through challenging river conditions, relying on the sheer exertion of their crews for propulsion. These boats played a pivotal role in the fur trade economy, facilitating the exchange of goods with Native peoples along the riverbanks.

“The Wm. H. Ashley serves as a tangible link to a bygone era,” said Jeff Colburn, president of the Fort Union Association. “It’s not just a vessel; it’s a living testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and adventurous spirit of those who traversed the waterways in pursuit of commerce and exploration.”

Constructed with meticulous attention to historical detail, The Wm. H. Ashley pays homage to the craftsmanship and innovation of the past. From its angled keel for improved tracking to its pointed bow and stern, every aspect of the boat reflects the authenticity of its historical counterparts.

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic site is located 23 miles west of Williston. No fees are required to visit the site.