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Michael has a BA in History & American Studies and an MSc in American History from the University of Edinburgh. He comes from a proud military family and has spent most of his career as an educator in the Middle East and Asia. His passion is travel, and he seizes any opportunity to share his experiences in the most immersive way possible, whether at sea or on the land.

Part of our in-depth series exploring the forts of Comancheria

Picture of Fort Scott
Officer's Quarters and Parade Ground,
Fort Scott NHS (NPS Photo)

The U.S. Army established Fort Scott in 1842 to protect the Permanent Indian Frontier. American Indian/non-Indian relations during the 1840s were relatively peaceful. Troops participated in the Mexican War and mission of exploration, and they functioned as escorts in the far west.

Fort Scott was abandoned by the U.S. Army in 1853 as the frontier moved westward. The buildings were sold at public auction in 1855 and became the town of Fort Scott. This was the end of the fort but not of the military presence in the area. Bleeding Kansas, the Civil War, and land squabbles in the 1870s brought the U.S. Army back as violence and turmoil periodically plagued the area until 1873.

Tours and Information

Interpretive programs, guided tours,and special events are offered throughout the year.

Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years

(316) 223-0310 Old Fort Boulevard in northeast Fort Scott

Events

Civil War Encampment – second weekend in April

Good Ol' Days – first weekend in June

Military Holiday – first Saturday in July

Mexican War Encampment – first weekend after Labor Day

American Indian Heritage Weekend – second weekend in October

Frontier Candlelight Tour – first weekend in December

Exhibits

Administered by the National Park Service, Fort Scott National Historic Site contains 20 major historic structures, 33 historically furnished rooms, museum exhibits, and a bookstore.

Points of Interest

Fort Scott National Historic Site, Old Fort Blvd., 620-223-0310

Lyons Victorian Mansion, 742 S. National

National Cemetery, East National

Antique, Gift & Craft Shoppes, Victorian Downtown

Ralph Richards Museum, 17 S. Main, 620-223-1557

Keeney Train Collection, Shown by appointment, 620-223-0399

Historic Trolley Tours, 231 E Wall, (800) 245-3678

Old Congregational Church, 502 S. National

Fort Scott Jubilee Country Music Show, 1 E. Third

Genealogy Library, 502. S. National

Chenault Mansion, 820 S. National

1881 Fort Lincoln School, 800/245-3678

Accommodations

Azure Sky Motel, 902 E. Wall, 620-223-6410
Best Western/Fort Scott Inn, 101 State, 620-223-0100
Chenault Mansion, 820 S. National, 620-223-680
Courtland Bed & Breakfast Inn, 121 E. 1st, 620-223-0098

Restaurants

Chicken Mary's, 1133 E 600 Rd, 620-231-9510
El Charro's Mexican Restaurant, 22 S. Main, 620-223-9944
Fort Scott Dairy Queen, 1735 S National, 620-224-2226

Communities and Related Links
Fort Scott Web Site

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