Fort Stanton

Fort Stanton was a U.S. military fort established in 1855 in what is now Lincoln County, New Mexico. Originally built to protect settlers from Apache raids, Fort Stanton has played various roles throughout its history, from serving as a military outpost to acting as a tuberculosis sanatorium, internment camp, and even a low-security women's prison. Today, it is preserved as the Fort Stanton Historic Site, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of American history in the Southwest.

History

Fort Stanton was established on May 4, 1855, by Companies G and K of the 1st Dragoon Regiment under the command of Captain Henry W. Stanton, after whom the fort was named. The fort's primary mission was to protect settlers in the Rio Bonito Valley from Apache raids, particularly those led by the Mescalero Apache. The fort's strategic location allowed it to serve as a base for military campaigns against the Apache, playing a significant role in the Indian Wars.

During the American Civil War, the fort was briefly abandoned but was reoccupied in 1862 by Union forces. In the late 19th century, Fort Stanton's role shifted from a military outpost to a public health service facility. In 1899, it became a tuberculosis sanatorium for the U.S. Merchant Marine, taking advantage of the area's high altitude and dry climate, which were considered beneficial for tuberculosis patients at the time.

In World War II, Fort Stanton was repurposed as an internment camp for German and Japanese nationals considered enemies, and later for German prisoners of war. After the war, the fort underwent several more transformations, serving as a hospital and low-security correctional facility before being decommissioned.

Preservation and Current Use

Today, Fort Stanton is preserved as the Fort Stanton Historic Site. It is open to the public, offering tours of its well-preserved buildings and grounds, which include a museum, a cemetery, and the remains of the military fort and sanatorium. The site hosts various events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations, reenactments, and educational programs, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the fort's diverse history.

Significance

Fort Stanton's significance lies in its multifaceted history, reflecting the broader themes of American expansion, conflict, and health care. It is a testament to the changing roles of military forts in the United States, transitioning from frontier defense to serving humanitarian and correctional purposes. The site's preservation allows for the study and appreciation of these aspects of American history, making it a valuable educational and cultural resource.

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