Rendezvous on the Reserve is an immersive learning experience presented by the Montpelier, Indiana Historical Society. This recreation of life in the Northwest Territory includes the Mississinewa Confederation Native Village, the camps of fur traders & trappers, lifestyles of the first settlers, sutlers hawking their merchandise, period musicians and more!
PUBLIC INFORMATION
CAMP HOURS:
Friday- 9-5
Saturday 9-6
Sunday 10-4
ADMISSION:
CASH ONLY - (pioneers didn't carry plastic!)
Adults - $6
Kids 12 & Under - free
DRESS APPROPRIATELY:
This event is being held in a natural setting that includes trails over uneven ground through wooded areas. Guests are reminded to exercise caution and to wear appropriate clothing such as long pants and sturdy shoes. Insect repellent is recommended.
Rendezvous on the Reserve, the Montpelier Historical Society and associated entities are not responsible for accidents or injuries.
STUDENT
EDUCATION DAY
Friday, September 20th is Student Education Day. While open to the public, this day focuses on education. This hands-on immersive learning experience for kids of all ages.
BUS PARKING
FREE ADMISSION for students, teachers, aids & bus drivers (donations accepted)
FOOD OPTIONS on site. SACK LUNCHES are permitted.
SATURDAY - SEPTEMBER 21st - 9:00-11:00 GOLF CART TOURS
THIS CAMP IS HELD IN NATURAL SURROUNDINGS.
For our friends with mobility issues, we will provide you with a cart and a driver to shuttle you through the camp so that you may fully enjoy the rendezvous.
Inquire at the front gate.
THIS CAMP IS HELD IN NATURAL SURROUNDINGS.
For our friends with mobility issues, we will provide you with a cart and a driver to shuttle you through the camp so that you may fully enjoy the rendezvous.
Inquire at the front gate.
ABSOLUTELY NO:
Firearms, fireworks, smoking, alcohol, carry-in drinks/food or coolers,
FOOD & DRINK AVAILABLE
The Camp Kitchen
Prairie Dogs & Prairie Burgers, Black Kettle Chili and ice-cold Root Beer.
Pappy’s Kettle Corn
Fresh and fast.
Salty and sweet.
made while you watch!
RESTROOMS
Port-a-Johns are located throughout the grounds.
Firearms, fireworks, smoking, alcohol, carry-in drinks/food or coolers,
FOOD & DRINK AVAILABLE
The Camp Kitchen
Prairie Dogs & Prairie Burgers, Black Kettle Chili and ice-cold Root Beer.
Pappy’s Kettle Corn
Fresh and fast.
Salty and sweet.
made while you watch!
RESTROOMS
Port-a-Johns are located throughout the grounds.
We encourage public, private, and home school groups to attend this immersive learning experience.
Bus Parking Available
Bus Parking Available
The Mississinewa Confederation is spearheading the native camp again in 2022. The Mississinewa Confederation is a band of historical reenactors dedicated to the accurate portrayal of the first nations people in this region. Their goal is to educate the public on the Eastern Woodlands and Great Lakes Native American Culture, primarily of the Myaamia (Miami) from 1754 to 1783 (French and Indian war to the American Revolution). Using techniques and tools of the time, the confederation has constructed a fully-functioning native camp that gives you a rare glimpse into their culture and daily lives. Learn more about Mississinewa Confederation
Rendezvous is a French word meaning "a predetermined place and time for meeting". While the English & even the Spanish were involved in fur trade, the French held the most influence over the industry. Trappers, hunters and natives of the late 18th and early 19th centuries would meet the trader or sutler and exchange furs for supplies, trade items, whiskey, and weapons. Whether the trappers worked independently or with a team, the rendezvous was more than a business market; it was the social event of the season. Partaking of libations, gambling, story swapping, and spirited competitions along with singing and dancing were the norm for a week-long rambunctious time called the rendezvous. There was much trading on the land now known as the Godfroy Reserve.