"Fort McKavett, Texas" Fort McKavett by Stephen-KarenConn

Fort McKavett Travel Guide: 19 reviews and 23 photos

Fort McKavett was established in 1852 to protect settlers and travelers on the road between San Antonio and El Paso. The post , built of limestone and wood, was abandoned after only seven years when problems with the Indians decreased in the area. However, raids by Comanches and Apaches again intensified during the War Between the States, and after the war ended Fort McKavett was reactivated in 1869 with black "Buffalo Soliders, " many of them former slaves.

All of four African-American regiments in the U.S. Army were stationed at Fort McKavett during the Indian Wars. These troopers distinguished themselves in over 60 engagements with Indians. There are several versions of how the Buffalo Soliders got their name. The most popular is that the curly hair of the African-American resembled the sacred mane of the buffalo. Another version is that the soliders were seen by the Indians as having the tenacity of the buffalo, refusing to back down if cornered. In either case, the term was one of honor, even though the Buffalo Soliders were adversaries.

Today, Fort McKavett State Historic Site preserves the fort's buildings and ruins and also the memories of the Buffalo Soliders who served there with great valor. It is one of the best preserved and most intact examples of a Texas Indian Wars frontier post.

Last visit to Fort McKavett: Feb 2005
Intro Updated Mar 1, 2005
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Reviews (19)

Government Spring Off The Beaten Path (3)

At the end of Government Road, now a nature trail, you will find Government Spring. This surprising green oasis,... more travel advice

Prickly Pear and Live Oaks - Fort McKavett

The Flora of Fort McKavett Favorites (1)

Fort McKavett is located on the semi-arid high plains of west-central Texas. This is not lush green country, but it... more travel advice

St. James' Episcopal Church - Fort McKavett

St. James' Episcopal Church Local Customs (1)

St. James' Episcopal Church at Fort McKavett stands near the Commanding Officers' Quarters. The church appears to be a... more travel advice

The Lime Kiln Off The Beaten Path (3)

Limestone, an abundant regional natural resource, was quarried and burned in the Lime Kiln to produce lime necessary for... more travel advice

Things to Do (12)
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Comments (10)

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WacoPilot Jan 26, 2006 at 7:26 PM

Greetings! I'm doing some research about a long time resident of McKavett, H. Leslie Jones. The reason I am looking is that I now own his Waco biplane he used to fly in the 30's if you have any info I can be reached at jazzzyone@hotmail.com Thanks! Susan
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tpal Mar 15, 2005 at 7:06 AM

Hi Stephen, In view of the fact that you seemed to be the only one around you sure got the inside info on the area as always. Great as always. I've seen prickly pear cactus on menus but haven't tried it yet...Tom
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Yaqui Mar 14, 2005 at 10:29 AM

Another wonderful page. Thanks for sharing you all!;-)
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windsorgirl Mar 9, 2005 at 12:32 PM

I can't imagine that Fort McKavett has a travel guide as thorough and with such beautiful photos as your virtual guide! Your pages set the standard for us all.
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deecat Mar 7, 2005 at 6:22 AM

Amazing information, Stephen. You are a "stickler for detail", which I admire. Loved the school house (of course), Fort hospital, flora, church, & lime kiln.Your usual excellence surfaces.
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johanl Mar 1, 2005 at 12:42 PM

Interesting place to vist and sure very quite, being the only visitor. Great page.
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ATXtraveler Mar 1, 2005 at 11:41 AM

Great updates... I should have gone county counting with you!
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Bwana_Brown Mar 1, 2005 at 8:26 AM

I think Gen. Sherman was correct - that is the 'prettiest' military post I have ever seen! Beautiful photos of the gorgeous stone buildings and great informative tips of millitary life on the old frontier! Excellent!
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sswagner Mar 1, 2005 at 7:38 AM

This is an excellent page on a place I was not aware of in my own home state! You have uncovered one of Texas' hidden treasures indeed. This looks to be well worth a visit.
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keida84 Feb 28, 2005 at 7:04 PM

Are you sounding the bugle as you transcribe these tips? lol. Why wasn't the 37 star flag flying that day? Kat