The United States of America has a remarkable military history, and it becomes apparent especially when you look at how many forts are in the American landscape. Texas is a state that is sure to give you a good time, especially if you want to look at the past and present of the forts. From preserving artifacts to war reenactments, the forts in Texas got it all for you. You will get a glimpse of how Texas served as the American’s forward defense against the Wild West. In this article, we will give you a glimpse of the top 10 historic forts in Texas.
Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio
Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio’s first permanent U.S military installation. This fort is a National History Landmark, and this is the home of the Fort Sam Houston Museum. In a 1905 style mess hall, you can see all the museum’s artifacts and other photos of the fort’s history since its founding in 1845 up until today. You can also visit the U.S Army Medical Department Museum in Fort Sam Houston, and it is a 40,000-square-foot facility that shows their military advances and their contribution to national healthcare.
Fort Concho in San Angelo
Fort Concho was built in 1867, and it was able to survive until today. It is located on the Concho River banks and served as a strict headquarters for the most recognized frontier units in Texas history, such as the 10th Cavalry or popularly known as the Buffalo Soldiers. Fort Concho always sponsors cheerful celebrations and festivals every year, such as the Fort Concho Frontier Day and Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day.
Pioneer Village in Gonzales
Pioneer Village is best known as the location of the first battle of the Texas Revolution. This fort is an hour’s drive away from San Antonio, and here you can see the famous cannon that started the Texas Revolution, two houses, a barn, a school, a granary, an opry stage, and a saloon. Pioneer Village is open for guided and group guided tours, and they also let you get a glimpse of the daily life on the range.
Fort Davis
Located in West Texas, Fort Davis is an excellent example of a frontier military post. It is located on the eastern side of the Davis Mountains near the mouth of a box canyon. Fort Davis is a reminder of the role the military played in the development and settlement of the western frontier. Today, you can go on self-guided tours, hiking, and watching special events highlighting Fort Davis’ interpretive program for the year.
Fort Griffin
This fort was a part of western defensive forts from 1867 to 1881. Today, you will be able to see the remnants of the fort if you visit Fort Griffin State Historic Site. This place is also where the official Texas Longhorn Herd is located, and they offer several opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, families, and even astronomers. There are also campgrounds in the area where you can relax while you’re under large shady trees. Other than that, you can also catch some catfish in the river, let your kids enjoy the playground, and even hike nature trails.
Fort Inglish
This fort acted as a refuge for settlers on the western edge of the Red River frontier. Fort Inglish offers their visitors to step back in time at the Fort Inglish village, witness some demonstrations of pioneer activities such as broom making, lye soap making, candle making, and other different outdoor skills. You can also participate in other pioneer activities such as washing clothes, shelling and grinding corn, and drawing water.
Fort Mason
This fort was built in 1851, and during the war, the confederacy got control of the fort even if it remained virtually unmanned. Families often sought protection and shelter here at Fort Mason when frequent Indian raids were happening. Today, you can go explore the reproduction officer’s quarter when you visit the Fort Mason Museum.
Fort Crockett
Fort Crockett was built after the great storm of 1900, and it has two giant concrete revetments or gun replacements that are still located on the hillside. During the Second World War, the revetments help 12-foot guns that were often used for artillery training and coastal protection.
Fort Inge Historical Park
Fort Inge was the site of the 1848 U.S Cavalry post, and it was a location that was inhabited by wildlife and people for over thousands of years because it is said to be a protected area. Fort Inge is situated on the east bank of the Leona River, and it is built to serve as one of the first federal lines of the frontier forts in Texas.
Fort Lancaster State Historic Site
This fort was established by the United States Army in 1855, and it is located near an important crossing of the Pecos River. Fort Lancaster State History Site is a Texas Historical Commission property. It is open for guests and visitors who would want to walk through the ruins or see a museum exhibit containing several artifacts discovered during excavations of the site in the 1970s.