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Piggott's Fort Historic Site: A Glimpse into Early Illinois

Explore the site of Piggott's Fort in Columbia, IL, and discover the stories of early American settlers in the Illinois Territory.

Piggott's Fort Historic Site in Columbia, Illinois, marks the location of one of the earliest American settlements in the state. Founded in 1783 by Captain James Piggott, the fort served as a crucial defense and community hub for settlers in the Northwest Territory. Though the original structure is gone, the site offers a window into the lives of these pioneers.

A brief summary to Piggott's Fort Historic Site

  • Columbia, Illinois, 62236, US

Local tips

  • Check for guided tours to enhance your understanding of the fort's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the site and grounds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the views and historical markers.
  • Visit during the fall for beautiful foliage surrounding the site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Columbia, IL, head west on E. Park Drive toward Main Street. Continue onto Main Street, following signs for Piggott's Fort Historic Site. The site will be on your right, across from Sackman Field Airport. Parking is available at the site. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the site. There are no tolls in the immediate vicinity.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Piggott's Fort Historic Site via public transportation, take the line 73 bus from St. Louis to Lemay Ferry @ Dumont Place Nb. Then take a taxi to the location. The bus fare is approximately $3. A taxi from the bus stop to Piggott's Fort will cost approximately $35-$45.

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Discover more about Piggott's Fort Historic Site

Piggott's Fort Historic Site offers a poignant connection to the early days of American settlement in Illinois. Established in 1783 by Captain James Piggott, a Revolutionary War veteran, the fort provided shelter and security for approximately 14 families in what was then a remote and often dangerous territory. Strategically located near a creek called Grand Ruisseau (now Carr Creek), the fort was more than just a military outpost; it was the nucleus of a growing community. The settlers relied on the fort for protection against Native American raids, a constant threat during the late 18th century. Historical accounts suggest the fort was among the strongest in the Northwest Territory, equipped with cannons and small arms to defend against attacks. While the original fort no longer stands, the site is marked by a sign and the foundations of a later barn, possibly incorporating stones from the fort. Although the precise location of the fort remains a topic of discussion, the recognized site lies on Piggott's original land grant. Visitors can reflect on the lives of the early settlers and their struggles to establish a foothold in the American Bottom. The surrounding landscape, with its bluffs and fields, evokes a sense of the past and the challenges faced by those who first called this place home. Today, Piggott's Fort Historic Site serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience of the early American pioneers who shaped the history of Illinois. It's a place to connect with the past, imagine life on the frontier, and appreciate the rich heritage of the region.

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