(4-2007)
Entrance to Fort Union National Monument
Three successive forts were built to protect Santa Fe Trail travelers and
to serve as a major military supply depot for the Southwest, starting with
the first fort in 1851
The second fort served from 1861-1862, but being made of earth and
wood quickly deteriorated. It was abandoned after the Confederate invasion
was turned back in March 1862 at the Battle of Glorieta Pass by a force of
Colorado and New Mexico volunteers and U.S. Regulars from Fort Union
The adobe ruins seen today are what remain from the third fort built in
1863 and abandoned in 1891, when it had outlived its usefulness |
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(4-2007) Overview of Fort Union |