Spanning 82 acres in the Pecos River valley, Fort Lancaster State Historic Site commemorates the vestiges of one of several posts established in the 1850s that played an important role in westward expansion by providing escorts for mail carriers, wagon trains, and settlers on the San Antonio–El Paso Road en route to California.
Today, visitors wander through ruins imagining the once-impressive establishment of over 30 permanent buildings—including a blacksmith shop, hospital, sutler’s store, and bakery—and enjoy the sights, sounds, and wildlife of West Texas.
From the Blog
By Alexandra Dedovitch
In the days when Texas travelers needed protection from warring Native American tribes, wagons sought safe passage as they expanded westward, and camels roamed the region as an experiment for military transportation, Texas military forts were a pinnacle of importance for the Texas frontier. Although long deserted from active duty, these 3 famous Texas Forts...
As Texans continue to seek creative ways to explore our state safely, the Texas Historical Commission is offering ideas for some great destinations for a picnic while learning about our state’s history. Grab a picnic basket and go off the beaten path to explore these scenic spots across the state with unique stories.
Austin – Mount Bonnell
Rising 775 feet above sea...
This article originally appeared in the Winter 2013 issue of The Medallion.
By Andy Rhodes, Managing Editor, The Medallion
Standing on a rocky bluff overlooking the panoramic oak-lined brim of the Edwards Plateau, it's easy to imagine Fort McKavett in 1852. The site has changed little in 160 years, but there's something beyond the physical landscape that conjures...
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Fort Lancaster: Coffee beans over a camp fire
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