In 1866, Congress passed a bill reorganizing the
US Army. Two US cavalry regiments (the Ninth
and Tenth) and four infantry regiments were
designated for blacks.
The Indians called them "Buffalo Soldiers"
because their hair resembled the fur of the
buffalo & in recognition of their fighting spirit.
The Ninth Cavalry was stationed at Fort Stanton
to control the Apache Indians.
The fort was commanded at one time by Kit
Carson. Black Jack Pershing was stationed there
on two occasions. Since it closed as an army
post, Fort Stanton has been used as a hospital, a
school and a correctional facility.
In 2007 Ft. Stanton was designated as a State
Monument. A museum on the grounds opened in
June, 1997. Ft. Stanton is about 25 miles from
Ruidoso on the way to Lincoln.
Fort Stanton Live!
Are you a history buff?
Don't miss Fort Stanton
Live!celebrated each
August in conjunction with
Old Lincoln Days.
Guided & Candlight Tours
Historical Presentations
Military Re-enactments
Native American Dances
Live Music & Concessions
Fort Stanton Museum
MUSEUM HOURS
(Beginning in April)
Thurs, Fri, Sat, Mon: 10-4 pm
Sunday: Noon-4
To Arrange Tours
Call 575.336.1436