Last updated: October 2, 2021
Place
Fort Bowie Ruins Tour- Stop 7
Quick Facts
Location:
Bowie, AZ
The infantry barracks was constructed in 1883 when Fort Bowie saw an increase in troop strength. A wooden framed structure, this building proved to be challenging to maintain prompting the commanding officer to report that the building was not fit for occupation.
“ The barracks of Capt. Parker’s Company 1st infantry is not fit for occupation during the winter. It is simply a shell, being neither ceiled nor lathed. Many of the men now habitually sleep on the ground on the west side of the building in preference to enduring the intense heat inside and during the winter it is almost impossible to heat the building." -Major Eugene Beaumont, Fort Bowie Post Commander
Repairs were eventually made, though it took five years to finally complete the barracks ceiling, and though additions were added, overcrowding and congestion were also constant problems.
“ The barracks of Capt. Parker’s Company 1st infantry is not fit for occupation during the winter. It is simply a shell, being neither ceiled nor lathed. Many of the men now habitually sleep on the ground on the west side of the building in preference to enduring the intense heat inside and during the winter it is almost impossible to heat the building." -Major Eugene Beaumont, Fort Bowie Post Commander
Repairs were eventually made, though it took five years to finally complete the barracks ceiling, and though additions were added, overcrowding and congestion were also constant problems.