Address: 1504 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
Phone: (432) 426-3224
Website: https://www.nps.gov/foda/index.htm
Established in 1854, Fort Davis National Historic Site stands as a testament to a bygone era of westward expansion and frontier defense. Built on the site of an earlier Native American village, the fort served as a vital safeguard for travelers and commerce along the San Antonio-El Paso Road during a tumultuous period in American history.
Initially constructed to protect against raids by Kiowa, Comanche, and Mescalero Apache tribes, Fort Davis also witnessed the Civil War, with the Union and Confederacy briefly occupying the post. After the war, the fort was rebuilt and became home to famed Buffalo Soldier regiments, including the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 24th and 25th Infantry.
The town of Fort Davis grew alongside the fort, mirroring its rise and decline. With a population that fluctuated between 500 and 1200, the town served as a hub for settlers escaping the Texas heat, cattlemen, and those seeking a fresh start.
Today, Fort Davis National Historic Site stands as one of the best-preserved frontier military posts in the American Southwest. Visitors can explore meticulously restored buildings like officer’s quarters, barracks, and even a hospital, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers and their families stationed there.
Beyond the fort’s physical structures lies a rich tapestry of stories. It’s a place where the struggles of Native Americans for survival intertwine with the westward expansion of the United States, creating a melting pot of cultures that included European immigrants, Hispanic residents, and the brave Buffalo Soldiers.
Fort Davis National Historic Site is not just a monument to the past; it’s a living reminder of the significant role the military played in shaping the American West.
The Fort Davis National Historic Site is open 7 days a week from 8am-5pm.