(La Junta CO)
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site was recreated using plans drawn by an army officer that spent time in the original fort, and from various diaries. It was stocked with trade goods and decor from the era creating an authentic ambiance.
Bents Old Fort
It was a major stop along the Mountain Route portion of the Santa Fe Trail, positioned where it turned heading southward. They maintained herds of various livestock, like cattle, oxen, horses, mules, sheep, and chickens. A few were present during my visit.
Inside Courtyard
Furs in Storage Room
The fort served the buffalo hide trade with the natives, and provided services for the merchant wagon trains using the trail to reach the southwest and Mexico. At the time, the nearby Arkansas River was the border between the two countries.
Fort Store
Longhorn Cattle at the Fort
There were volunteers in period costume that did a good job showing how life was lived at the time. I was very impressed with the presentation of that historically important part of the Santa Fe Trail. Those interested certainly should visit when in the area.
Camp: Old Trail City Rest Area drycamp
Scene: Restored fort, supplies, livestock
That’s so interesting! You just keep sharing the best places. Thanks for this one, which I’ve never heard of before, and now want to visit.
They’ve really done a good job of re-creating the fort and atmosphere of the era. Hope you get to see it sometime.
We really enjoyed our visit to Bent’s Fort a while ago. There is so much history in the La Junta area. Have fun!
A swing down to Boggsville was also worth the ride. I like historical places like these.
I agree. We’ve been to a lot of places like this; but, this was so well done. I would suggest wearing bug spray, as the mosquitoes were bad walking the trail to the fort when we visited.
I lucked out and got to ride the golf cart shuttle. There is a wetland area by the fort, so your suggestion is a good one.