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Fort Belmont says visitation is up and outlines restoration projects, events and infrastructure needs
Summary
Fort Belmont representatives told the Jackson City Council July 7 that visitation is higher this year, reporting 546 visitors from 32 states through June and increased Harvest Host camper visits; they outlined restorations—log cabin, Red Barn relocation, church re‑siding—and said water and sewer upgrades are a priority.
Craig Hakes and Ken Kruse, speaking for Fort Belmont, told the Jackson City Council on July 7 that visitation to the historic site is up and that several restoration projects and events are planned for the remainder of 2026.
Hakes said Fort Belmont is ahead of last year regarding visitors and short‑term campers. “We’ve had about 42 campers and there’s another 50 to 60 that are planning to camp through the Harvest Host program in July and August,” he said, and added that visitors often patronize downtown businesses. He also reported that “we have already had 546 visitors from 32 states” through the end of June.
The Fort hosted three fundraisers in 2025, held Star Watching events that drew 30–45 attendees, and has begun hosting weddings and school tours. Hakes said the foundation expects Rhythm of the River on July 10–11 and additional community events, and invited the Council to visit to see ongoing improvements.
On preservation and site work, Hakes and Kruse described several projects under way or planned: the foundation has moved a log cabin from Windom to the site, plans to relocate a Red Barn from behind the Dairy Queen before fall, will rebuild a sod house and will re‑side the Fort’s 124‑year‑old church with permanent siding. Kruse said Fort Belmont continues to draw visitors from foreign countries and described the site’s programming as an educational draw.
Hakes flagged infrastructure needs as a key priority. He told the Council Fort Belmont received grants to upgrade electrical service but requires water and sewer improvements to support expanded visitation and events. He also said the foundation is in early discussions with state contacts about a potential long‑term trail that could use the former railroad bridge across Interstate 90, noting that “there are many things that will have to fall into place before that happens.”
The Council thanked Hakes and Kruse for the update; no formal action was taken. The foundation said it will continue to pursue grants and partnerships to support the listed projects.
