Welcome to Fort Stanton Historic Site in Fort Stanton, New Mexico! Nestled in the heart of the scenic Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation, this site is a treasure trove of American history and architectural beauty that spans over 150 years. Our tour begins at the imposing entrance where youll notice the well-preserved limestone building structures reminiscent of the sites early days as a military fort.
Established in 1855, Fort Stanton was initially built to protect settlers from Apache attacks and later played significant roles during the Civil War, WWI, and WWII. It served not only as an army post but also housed several other entities such as tuberculosis sanatorium, a POW camp for German soldiers, and even a movie set for western films!
Walking around Fort Stanton, youll feel transported back in time with each step. The Officers Quarters and Enlisted Mens Barracks offer glimpses into the daily lives of soldiers stationed here. Dont miss the chance to explore the underground bunker system that protected officers during skirmishes - its a chilling experience!
As we continue our tour, youll notice the tranquil creek flowing nearby. This peaceful setting stands in stark contrast to the battles fought and lives lost here throughout history. The Fort Stanton Cemetery holds the remains of many brave souls who served at the fort and those affected by disease during its time as a tuberculosis sanatorium.
Our journey through this historic site wouldnt be complete without mentioning the unique attributes that make Fort Stanton so special. Apart from its rich military history, it also houses an impressive stable complex which once housed horses for both the army and civilian use. Today, it continues to serve as a living farm with various livestock species raised on-site.
As we conclude our tour of Fort Stanton Historic Site, remember that this place is not just about buildings and artifacts but also about the stories of resilience, courage, and sacrifice etched into its very walls. Each structure, each artifact holds a piece of Americas past waiting to be discovered by curious minds like yours.
Thank you for joining me on this captivating journey through time at Fort Stanton Historic Site!