Venture north on Highway 93 to Fort Fetterman, one of Wyoming’s most important frontier military posts.
Located approximately 11 miles northwest of Douglas, Fort Fetterman State Historic Site sits on a plateau overlooking the valleys of LaPrele Creek and the North Platte River. Visitors can walk the grounds and follow interpretive signs that tell the story of the fort, which was abandoned in 1882.
A restored officer’s quarters and an original ordnance warehouse still stand among the visible foundations of both the fort and Fetterman City. Today, these buildings house exhibits and artifacts that help bring the history of the site to life.
Fort Fetterman is located approximately 11 miles northwest of Douglas along Highway 93 and makes an easy day trip for history enthusiasts exploring Converse County.
Fort Fetterman was established on July 19, 1867, as the U.S. Army worked to protect transportation routes and expanding settlements across the Northern Plains. Named in honor of Captain William J. Fetterman, who was killed near Fort Phil Kearny in 1866, the post became a major military supply center during Wyoming's frontier era.
During the mid-1870s, Fort Fetterman reached its peak importance as the departure point for several major military expeditions. As Native American populations were moved onto reservations and conditions on the frontier changed, the fort's military role diminished and it was eventually abandoned in 1882.
A Community That Helped Shape the Region
After the military abandoned the fort, a small community known as Fetterman City developed around the site and served area ranchers, travelers, and wagon trains. The boom was short-lived, however. When Douglas was established in 1886 along the railroad, the new town quickly became the region's commercial center and Fetterman City faded into history.
The site features interpretive walking trails, picnic areas, a group shelter, geocaching opportunities, a visitor center, museum exhibits, and a gift shop. Several walking paths also provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and historic grounds.
Fort Fetterman Day
Fort Fetterman Day is held annually on the Saturday closest to July 19, commemorating the establishment of the fort in 1867. The event features living history demonstrations, family activities, and opportunities to experience Wyoming's frontier heritage.