It has been reported that at one time that Fort Richardson was the largest military installation in the world. If one wanted to see action in the “Indian wars,” this was the place to be.

Built in 1867, Fort Richardson was built to protect westbound settlers from Indian attackers. It was the northern most fort in a line of military installments ranging from the Red River to the Rio Grande, and played a major roll in making the frontier safe for U. S. expansion.

Several of the original buildings remain standing. The most impressive of which was the post hospital. Also existing are six other of the original buildings: the officers' quarters (Commanding Officer); a powder magazine; a morgue; a commissary; a guardhouse; and a bakery, which baked 600 loaves per day. There are also two replicas: officers' and enlisted men's barracks. The Commanding Officer’s house, made of cottonwood, is the only one of its kind still standing in the entire country. The Fort was abandoned in May 1878, after the frontier was made relatively safe.

Activities within the park include historical study, picnicking, camping, fishing and hiking. Guided historical tours are held daily at 10 am and 2 pm. Also accessible is the Lost Creek Resevoir State Trailway – An approximately 10-mile hike, bike and equestrian trail with wading and swimming.

Fort Richardson is located 1/2 mile south of Jacksboro on US Highway 281.

For more information, please visit: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/fort_richardson/
(Taken from Texas Parks and Wildlife Depatment publications)

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