Digging Through History: French Military, Fur Traders and Forts in Indiana

Explore Indiana’s fascinating early history during two free Digging Through History programs, co-sponsored by Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum. On September 3 and 4, historical interpreters Joe Zdziebko and Bob Jones will bring the stories of Indiana’s early French soldiers, fur traders and forts to life at the Syracuse Community Center.

Local French Military and Fur Traders

Thursday, September 3, 2026
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Syracuse Community Center
1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse
Free admission

Long before Indiana became a state, French explorers, missionaries, traders and soldiers traveled its rivers and portage routes, establishing relationships and trade with Native American tribes. From the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River, the French built a network of forts and trading posts, including Fort Ouiatenon near present-day Lafayette, Fort Vincennes and a French fort along the St. Joseph River near present-day Niles, Michigan.

But what was life like for these early French soldiers and traders? Step back into the 1700s as Joe presents while wearing the uniform of a French Marine, bringing history to life with an impressive collection of artifacts, including various pieces of equipment and weapons, furs, coins and maps. Learn how these soldiers lived, hunted, traded and fought alongside their Native American allies, and how they became some of the earliest military rangers in North America.

In this free program, you’ll discover the important role Indiana’s rivers and the vast Kankakee Marsh played in connecting the French settlements. Hear how the French developed relationships with Native American tribes, learning from them and adapting to life in the wilderness. This fascinating program offers a glimpse into a largely forgotten chapter of Indiana history and the French influence that helped shape the Midwest.

Joe will also answer questions from the audience regarding the military and Native American alliances.

About Joe Zdziebko

Originally from Chicago, Joe Zdziebko attended Northeastern Illinois University, followed by graduate school at Western Illinois University and Ball State University. For almost 40 years, he taught history and physical education while coaching football and track.

Joe has been a French and Indian War reenactor for nearly 20 years, participating in reenactment events in eight different states and two countries. He has been featured in two books and numerous newspaper articles, as well as radio and television news programs. He has been involved with the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum for five years, captivating audiences through a number of Chautauqua programs.

Forts in Indiana

Friday, September 4, 2026
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Syracuse Community Center
1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse
Free admission

Did you know there is a long list of forts in Indiana? The Forts in Indiana program will focus on forts from Indiana’s early settlement period.

You will learn about several Ohio forts organized by Brigadier General Anthony Wayne that are associated with Fort Wayne. Another, Fort de la Balme, stands out from the rest as little known and disputed, yet very interesting.

Attendees will participate in a murder mystery with a twist. The question will not be “Who did it?” but “Where was it done?” Like the familiar game of Clue, you will examine material culture and evidence and decide for yourself where the actual scene of the crime was.

This free program is suitable for the entire family.

About Bob Jones

Bob has lived his entire life in Indiana and has resided in Fort Wayne since 1972. A graduate of Indiana University Fort Wayne, Bob received a Bachelor of Arts in 1974 and a Master of Arts in 1976. He retired after spending 37 years in the elementary classroom.

Bob now spends his time volunteering at First Missionary Church; Access Fort Wayne, the radio and television department of the Allen County Public Library; and Historic Fort Wayne, Inc., where he currently serves on the Board of Directors and as event manager and volunteer manager.

Bob is a ham radio operator and a member of the Fort Wayne Radio Club and the Fort Wayne Artists Guild.

Attend the Digging Through History Programs

Join Chautauqua-Wawasee and the Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Museum for one or both of these free Digging Through History programs and uncover the people, places and mysteries that helped shape Indiana’s early history.