Last updated: May 3, 2024
Place
Wagon Alley
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Tactile Exhibit
This "alley" was the space of some 16 ft. between the south row of rooms and the wagon room. This area probably served as a corridor of sorts for the movement of wagons, animals, and supplies from the inner corral, the wagon house, the plaza, and the crafts' shops.
The western part of the alley contained numerous postholes. Most plentiful behind the carpenter shop, these obviously were support for the billiard room located just above on the second story. Some 20 paces eastward, the alley was walled off, with access here through a gate. At the alley's southeastern edge was a room or shed, likely extending along the fort's east wall contiguous to the wagon room. This structure is shown in the Abert sketch, and has since been identified by archaeologists. Limestone supporting blocks were uncovered in 1964, as well as evidence of a substantial divider wall. It is believed that part of this area was fitted with a wooden floor around 1865-1870. Several juniper posts, horseshoes, harness, and a mule shoe were also uncovered here.
The western part of the alley contained numerous postholes. Most plentiful behind the carpenter shop, these obviously were support for the billiard room located just above on the second story. Some 20 paces eastward, the alley was walled off, with access here through a gate. At the alley's southeastern edge was a room or shed, likely extending along the fort's east wall contiguous to the wagon room. This structure is shown in the Abert sketch, and has since been identified by archaeologists. Limestone supporting blocks were uncovered in 1964, as well as evidence of a substantial divider wall. It is believed that part of this area was fitted with a wooden floor around 1865-1870. Several juniper posts, horseshoes, harness, and a mule shoe were also uncovered here.