Traverse des Sioux

Today the trip from St. Paul to Traverse des Sioux takes under 90 minutes by car. In 1854, the same journey by steamboat took two and a half days. As one traveler wrote, “The steamer pokes along as if it had half a mind not to go at all.”

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Shadows at the Crossing!

Over two nights, 152 attendees explored the lantern-lit trail at Traverse des Sioux and helped bring history to life just by being part of it. Your curiosity, questions, and enthusiasm make this event special year after year.

A heartfelt thank you also to our actors, guides, and volunteers. You make the stories shine!

We’re grateful to everyone who shared these evenings with us and hope to see you again next fall!

The name Dakota is often translated as “friend” or “ally.” Related to this, the word Odakota means a state of peace. Dakota lifeways emphasized kinship, responsibility, and harmony with others. As Ella Deloria wrote, “Peace-making is our heritage.”