Welcome to Fort Benton Montana
Known as the "Birthplace of Montana" for its proximity to what was later to become the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, the Nez Perce National Historic Trail, and the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument., Fort Benton first gained fame as a trading post. For thirty some years steamboats floated the Missouri River to Fort Benton until the advent of the railroad signaled an end to this towns' prominence as the "Worlds Innermost Port". This outpost played such a vital role in the expansion of the West, that it is now registered as a National Historic Landmark.
Fort Benton is also known for a loyal dog named Shep. Visit Fort Benton and the Shep Memorial for a look at a dedicated animal that greeted every train for five and a half years to find his long lost companion and friend.