For thousands of years, the Dakota lived and worked at Traverse des Sioux, located on the lower Minnesota River. By the early 19th century, European American fur traders, missionaries, and adventurers were frequent visitors. In 1851, this site witnessed the signing of the Treaty of Traverse des Sioux between the US government and the Dakota. The Nicollet County Historical Society manages this site. The trails are open daily, from dawn until dusk. Trails are not maintained in the winter.