Officer's Quarters and Parade Ground,
Fort Scott NHS (NPS Photo)
The U.S. Army established Fort Scott in 1842 to protect the Permanent
Indian Frontier. American Indian/non-Indian relations during the 1840s
were relatively peaceful. Troops participated in the Mexican War and
mission of exploration, and they functioned as escorts in the far west.
Fort Scott was abandoned by the U.S. Army in 1853 as the frontier
moved westward. The buildings were sold at public auction in 1855 and
became the town of Fort Scott. This was the end of the fort but not
of the military presence in the area. Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War,
and land squabbles in the 1870s brought the U.S. Army back as violence
and turmoil periodically plagued the area until 1873.
Tours and Information
Interpretive programs, guided tours,and special events are offered throughout
the year.
Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New
Years
(316) 223-0310 Old Fort Boulevard in northeast Fort Scott
Events
Civil War Encampment – second weekend in April
Good Ol' Days – first weekend in June
Military Holiday – first Saturday in July
Mexican War Encampment – first weekend after Labor Day
American Indian Heritage Weekend – second weekend in October
Frontier Candlelight Tour – first weekend in December
Exhibits
Administered by the National Park Service, Fort Scott National Historic
Site contains 20 major historic structures, 33 historically furnished
rooms, museum exhibits, and a bookstore.
Communities and Related Links
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