Cavalry Barracks (1874)

Dawn light on the 1874 Cavalry Barracks

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Fort Laramie, WY

Amenities

7 listed

Audio Description, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid Kit Available, Food/Drink - Vending Machine/Self Service, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible

Built in 1874, this building would house two companies of soldiers. The first companies housed here were Company K of the 2nd U.S. Cavalry and Company K of the 14th U.S. Infantry. Both companies would serve during the the Great Sioux War of 1876, with Company K of the 2nd Cavalry participating in the Reynolds Fight against a village of Northern Cheyenne on the Powder River on March 17, 1876. After the battle they would return to the post, guarding the Cheyenne-Deadwood Stage Line.In 1883, the porch was added to the building. After the closure of the post, this building would serve as a community center. Currently, the south half is restored to represent the time when it was occupied by Company K of the 2nd Cavalry. The north half houses park offices and storage facilities.