• Aerial View of Fort Larned

    Fort Larned

    National Historic Site Kansas

Home to the Guardians of the Santa Fe Trail

Discover a complete and authentic army post from the 1860s -1870s! This well-preserved fort on the Santa Fe Trail shares a tumultuous history of the Indian Wars era. The sandstone constructed buildings sheltered troops who were known as the Guardians of the Santa Fe Trail. 

Features

  • Mule Wagons

    Guarding the Santa Fe Trail

    Trade on the Santa Fe Trail was profitable but dangerous work. Indian attacks were becoming frequent. A permanent U.S. military presence was needed.

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  • The Indian Wars

    Hancock's War

    The spring of 1867 became Kansas's bloodiest season in the Indian Wars period. General W. S. Hancock led a mission to prove the might of the army.

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  • U.S. 10th Cavalry

    Buffalo Soldier's at Fort Larned

    Company A of the 10th U.S. Cavalry served at Fort Larned from 1867 to 1869. Despite their admirable record they regularly dealt with issues of racism.

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  • Living History at Special Events

    Special Events You Will Always Remember

    Fort Larned comes to life with all the sights, sounds, and smells of a working frontier fort during our special event weekends.

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Did You Know?

Military supply wagon at Fort Larned

Fort Larned is located directly on the Dry Route of the Santa Fe Trail, which follows the Pawnee Fork.  The Wet Route, which more closely follows the Arkansas River, is just a few miles to the south. More...