Today, visitors to the barracks can see the bunks lined with bed sacks made of grass ticking as well as the period furnishings of a squad room in the late 1800s. On average, 150 troops were stationed at Fort Larned, although the barracks could hold up to 500, and this number was briefly reached in 1868.

The barracks were designed to hold up to four infantry and cavalry companies. A blacksmith shop, bakery, leatherwork shop, and carpenter shop were all staffed by civilians or soldiers looking to earn extra wages. Shops at the fort demonstrate the role of civilians in army life. An issue room is stocked with the uniforms, boots and supplies that were allotted to soldiers. The Old Commissary, the fort’s oldest building, and the quartermaster’s storehouse are examples of the warehouses and storage units at the fort. Games, taxidermy, books, and music were among the main leisure activities. Officer’s quarters are outfitted with period furnishings and demonstrate what life was like for those stationed on the frontier. The rear of each building housed a kitchen and staff bedrooms. Two halls, each with four rooms, housed a lieutenant and captain. Officer’s Row was built to house the officers from four companies. The remarkably preserved sandstone fort buildings were in service through the 1860s and 1870s during the Indian Wars, and soldiers stationed there were known as the “Guardians of the Santa Fe Trail.” The fort is home to nine historical buildings. More Ideas in KS: Fort Larned National Historic Siteįort Larned, 6 miles west of Larned, Kansas, is a National Historic Site. Resorts in Kansas: Rock Creek Marina & Resort The 12 Best Resorts in Kansas near me today according to local experts:

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