• Fort Parade Ground and Officers Quarters as seen from Guardhouse

    Fort Scott

    National Historic Site Kansas

The Iron Heel of War

It was said that the "iron heel or war left its impact on Fort Scott" during the Civil War. During the war, Fort Scott was an important millitary base, serving as a supply depot and a recruitment center for the Union Army. Many refugees came to Fort Scott seeking food, shelter, protection, and medical care. Some of thes refugees ended up becoming soldiers. In this program, students participate in four activities that simulate the experience of refugees who become soldiers during the Civil War.



Theme, Goals, and Objectives



Pre-Visit Instructions




Newspaper Articles for Pre Visit Activity






Did You Know?

African American, American Indian, and white soldiers trained at Fort Scott.

Soldiers at Fort Scott formed the first "rainbow coalition" during the Civil War. African American, American Indian, and Euro American soldiers fought in this area. Many, including the First Kansas Colored, Sixth Kansas Cavalry, and elements of the  Indian Home Guard trained at Fort Scott.