Stand on the Grounds of General Zachary Taylor's Fort on the Rio Grande

Visit the site of the earthen fortification that became known as Fort Brown. U.S. troops constructed the fort in the spring of 1846 to serve as their main base on the Rio Grande. When war erupted between the U.S. and Mexico, the fort became a primary target for Mexican forces.

The fort withstood a six-day siege by the Mexican Army sustaining only two casualties. One of them, Major Jacob Brown was honored when the fortification was named in his honor. On May 17, 1846, General Zachary Taylor issued an order officially naming the site Fort Brown. The town that eventually grew up in turn took its name from the fort—Brownsville.

While visiting this site you can see historical markers and even what is left of one of the fort’s bastions. The nearby campus of UTRGV is home to several post-Mexican War buildings. The Brownsville Historical Association provides guided tours of the site on a seasonal basis. Contact the BHA for more info.

Please note: The NPS does not own the Fort Brown property. For more information about visiting the site, contact the International Boundary and Water Commission (USIBWC).

Details

Duration

15-30 Minutes

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Age(s)

All ages

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

Yes

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

Wheelchair access to historical markers and earthwork remnants may be limited.