Brigade Encampment

Step back in time to 1855 at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum’s annual Brigade Encampment. This event recreates the bustle and excitement of the historic visit of fur traders to Fort Nisqually in 1855. Guests will witness the arrival of Angus McDonald and his fur brigade (the convoy that delivered a year’s worth of furs) and spirited contests between trappers and traders.

Visitors can participate in “Engage for the Day,” visiting with living historians at their tents and receiving hands-on lessons on period skills. Sample food from our kitchen, watch demonstrations on artisan skills, and enjoy live music. Guests can barter a contract with Dr. Tolmie to join onto the Hudson Bay Company as well as test yourself in games of strength and endurance. Join Professor Petticoat as she entertains and delights audiences of all ages with her Punch and Judy Puppet Shows! We will also be welcoming back our friends from the Pacific Ohana Foundation on Sunday to perform traditional Hawai’ian dances to honor the Hawai’ian Hudson’s Bay laborers who worked here in the Puget Sound region.

This year we are excited to have two food trucks join us for this event: Boss Mamas’ Kitchen serving burgers and grilled cheeses on Saturday, and Mauka Hawaiian Shave Ice during both days!