One of the best preserved frontier military posts west of the Mississippi, this National Historic Landmark consists of 23 original and restored buildings on 40 acres near downtown.

Established 1867 as pivot post on frontier line replacing Fort Chadbourne Most stone structures built with pecan-wood beams and rafters by skilled German craftsmen from Fredericksburg.

Frontier troops protected stagecoaches and wagon trains, escorted U.S. mail runs, explored and mapped new territory and occasionally clashed with area Comanche and Apache tribes. Many well-known infantry and cavalry officers commanded the fort, including Col. Ranald S. Mackenzie, Col. William R. Shafter and Col. Benjamin H. Grierson. Both black and white troops took part in their campaigns, and the post was also the headquarters of the famed "BuffaloSoldiers", the black troops of the 10th Calvary. By the late 1800s, the railroad had arrived inWestTexas and the military's protection was no longer necessary. And in a sentimental ceremony, on June 20, 1889, one small remaining company of the 19th Infantry took down the flag at evening retreat and left for San Antonio the very next day.

All buildings have been restored to their original appearance; up to 10 structures have either period interiors or displays to see. Regular and changing ex hibits cover military history, the heritage of San Angelo and WestTexas, and the daily life of a soldier and officer. Open Tues. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 1 - 5 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's. Fort is just east of S. Oakes St., between Avenues C and D. Admission fee.