Fort McKavett preserves a frontier Army post in Menard County

The U.S. Army established Fort McKavett in 1852 to protect settlers and travelers heading west. The fort was abandoned in 1859, briefly used during the Civil War, then reopened in 1868 when conflict with Comanche increased. It operated as a major supply hub for West Texas military operations until 1883.

All four Buffalo Soldier regiments were stationed here at some point. Sgt. Emanuel Stance of the 9th Cavalry earned the first post-Civil War Medal of Honor for an African American soldier for actions near the fort. After the Army left, settlers lived in the old buildings until 1973. The Texas Historical Commission now manages the site and offers self-guided tours open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission fees apply; check the THC website for current pricing.