Fort Concho

Fort Concho, Headquarters

Fort Concho was a United States Army fort established in 1867 in San Angelo, Texas. It was one of a series of forts built to protect settlers and travelers in the region from Native American tribes. The fort played a significant role in the Indian Wars and the westward expansion of the United States.

History

Fort Concho was established on December 4, 1867, by elements of the 4th Cavalry Regiment under the command of Colonel Ranald S. Mackenzie. The fort was strategically located at the confluence of the Concho Rivers, which provided a reliable water source and a natural defensive position.

The fort was named after the Concho River, which in turn was named for the Spanish word for "shell" due to the abundance of freshwater mussels in the river. Fort Concho was part of a network of forts including Fort Griffin, Fort Richardson, and Fort Stockton.

Structure and Layout

Fort Concho was constructed using local materials, primarily limestone. The fort's layout included a parade ground surrounded by various buildings such as barracks, officers' quarters, a hospital, a guardhouse, and storehouses. The fort also had a blacksmith shop, a bakery, and stables for the cavalry horses.

Military Operations

During its operational years, Fort Concho was home to several units, including the 10th Cavalry Regiment, also known as the Buffalo Soldiers. These units conducted numerous patrols and engagements with Native American tribes, including the Comanche and Kiowa.

One of the notable events in the fort's history was the Battle of Blanco Canyon in 1871, where Colonel Mackenzie led a successful campaign against the Comanche.

Decommissioning and Preservation

Fort Concho was decommissioned in June 1889 as the Indian threat diminished and the frontier became more settled. After its abandonment, the fort's buildings fell into disrepair. However, in the 20th century, efforts were made to preserve and restore the fort.

Today, Fort Concho is a National Historic Landmark and operates as a museum. It hosts various educational programs, reenactments, and community events, providing a glimpse into the life of soldiers and settlers during the late 19th century.

See Also

• Buffalo Soldiers
• Indian Wars
• San Angelo, Texas
• Fort Griffin
• Fort Richardson
• Fort Stockton