Visited: March 2018
Nearby town: Ft. Laramie, WY
Fort Laramie served an important role as a trading post and military installation throughout the 19th century. The fort is located at the confluence of the Laramie and North Platte rivers, in present-day southeastern Wyoming. Originally used by the American Fur Company as a trading post, it was purchased by the United States Army in 1849. Fort Laramie was common stop along the Oregon Trail, and a communication hub, used by the Pony Express and the transcontinental telegraph. The fort also served as a meeting place for treaty negotiations with the Northern Plains Indian Nations.
The fort was abandoned in 1890, and eventually became a part of the NPS in 1938.
Tara and I made a quick stop and walked the grounds.
The ruins of the military hospital.
The most prominent structure at the fort is this large white building known as "Old Bedlam." Although there have been a number of additions, it is the oldest standing building in the state of Wyoming. Built to house military officers that were bachelors, the quarters had quite a lively and rambunctious reputation.
If you're driving through the area, make a quick stop to stretch your legs and learn some history. For more info: https://www.nps.gov/fola/index.htm
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