Cultural Encounters June 25-26 2011

Date: June 10, 2011

"Cultural Encounters" Special Event at Fort Union
June 25 and 26, 2011

Fort Union National Monument is holding the annual "Cultural Encounters" weekend, June 25 and 26, 2011. The park is waiving all entrance fees. Throughout the weekend, talks will be given by Dr. Rick Hendricks, Dr. John Taylor, Lorene Willis, and members of the Santa Fe Trail - Corazón de los Caminos Chapter. Living History presenters include the Fort Davis Buffalo Soldiers, Artillery Company of New Mexico, Fort Larned'smilitary company and Fort Union's Company A of the 3^rd New Mexico Volunteer Infantry. Additionally, an exhibitor and children's tent area will highlight local historical, cultural, and recreational opportunities in the New Mexico area.

 Saturday's events will begin at 9am and conclude with a special evening sunset tour of the fort followed by a stargazing astronomy program. Sunday's events will begin with an 8am ranger led 90 minute hike along the historic Santa Fe Trail. The hike focuses on the flora and fauna around Fort Union and what travelers faced when navigating the Santa Fe Trail. As part of the weekend activities, visitors may take self-guided tours of Fort Union. Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes, and bring a hat, sun block, snacks and water.

 Fort Union (1851-1891) was the largest frontier military post and supply center of the southwest. The National Park Service preserves and protects the historic Fort Union and ruts of the Santa Fe Trail. To visit the monument, take Exit 366 off I-25 at Watrous, NM, onto State Hwy. 161, 8 miles. Park hours are 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. For more information and a complete schedule of events, contact Fort Union National Monument at [phone], or visit www.nps.gov/foun.