History of fort Davis
Fort Davis has an extensive history beginning in 1854 when U. S. Army General Persifor Smith, issued an order establishing Fort Davis, which was named in honor of Jefferson Davis, the Secretary of War. The purpose of this fort and others along the route was to protect the road from San Antonio to El Paso as folks were heading west to find gold in California. Fort Davis was staffed with infantry or foot soldiers. Indians were in the area that were difficult to combat as they were stealthy, had horses, and had the ability to move quickly. These soldiers left Fort Davis in 1861 due to the beginning of the Civil War.
In 1867, the 9th Cavalry, an all-black regiment, except for the all-white officers were assigned to Fort Davis. This group of men were known as the Buffalo Soldiers.
In 1868, civilian workers built a temporary hospital in exchange for medical services. This post hospital ensured the soldiers remained healthy, but was also important to the success of all military actions at the time. This hospital was seen as the most updated hospitals west of San Antonio. The staff would also care for civilians living outside of the fort.
The National Park Service was established in 1916, however, it was not until 1961 when FODA was deemed a National Historic Site.
In 1867, the 9th Cavalry, an all-black regiment, except for the all-white officers were assigned to Fort Davis. This group of men were known as the Buffalo Soldiers.
In 1868, civilian workers built a temporary hospital in exchange for medical services. This post hospital ensured the soldiers remained healthy, but was also important to the success of all military actions at the time. This hospital was seen as the most updated hospitals west of San Antonio. The staff would also care for civilians living outside of the fort.
The National Park Service was established in 1916, however, it was not until 1961 when FODA was deemed a National Historic Site.