Heading west across the continent happened in three stages: 1) getting to St. Louis, 2) getting across the plains to the Rockies and 3) getting to your final destination on the other side of the Rocky Mountains. Most people followed the same path across the Great Plains but then could take any one of several paths across the Rockies. Fort Laramie is that important transition from where the plains end and to where the mountains begin.
You lay over at Fort Laramie for several important reasons. First, you’re resting after months spent walking across the flat middle of our country. Second, you’re purchasing supplies for the next stage of your journey as this is your last good opportunity before mounting the Rockies. Lastly, you’re waiting for decent weather before attempting to climb into the Rockies (remember the Donner Party). Fort Laramie figures very importantly into your plans!
Originally set up as a fur trading post, this cavalry fort was located where the Laramie and North Platte rivers merge. Though it didn’t start off serving in a military capacity, as relations with indian nations deteriorated it became an important outpost for managing indian relations and fighting battles when necessary to secure safe passage.
Some building on the site still lay in ruin while others have been restored. Whether a building is rebuilt depends upon if enough of the old structure remains to ensure authenticity. This means the less ruined could be restored under government rules while others could only be reinforced to prevent further deterioration.
In most of the restored structures there have been efforts made to give rooms some authenticity. You can peer in to the living quarters of soldiers, see where the blacksmith worked, look at where meals were served, and much more. Park Service personnel were available to answer questions and were quite enthusiastic to tell the story of their fort and answer any questions. Given he expectations I had when I arrived, I was impressed.
This visit was great. I had added Fort Laramie to my agenda on a whim and only because I’d heard of it. That’s it, “heard of it” but I knew nothing about it! I’m glad I made the effort because to see the fort and to learn of its role and importance were eye opening.
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