Fort McKavett State Historic Site
After the Army departed Menard County, local residents moved into the old buildings and created a town from the former army post. For decades after, the primary industry revolved around sheep and goat raising. For a time, Menard, Kimble, and surrounding counties were one of the foremost producers of wool and mohair in the United States. This program will feature the earliest days of Fort McKavett’s participation in the industry. Come see how folks like Colonel Black and the ancestors of local families made a living in the otherwise desolate area around the town. Learn how sheep’s wool was sheared by hand and processed for shipment to wool buyers and on to textile mills. Get in touch with your Menard Ancestors and bring the whole family!
