NPS Santa Fe National Historic Trail
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  • 0902. Site Introduction

    Aerial view of the fort's sandstone building around the parade ground.
    Fort Larned's layout is typical for frontier army posts of the 1800s. Major buildings were arranged around a square or rectangular parade ground with a flag pole in the middle, and other activities taking place outside the parade ground.

    If you are looking for an authentic frontier military experience, Fort Larned National Historic Site can deliver! The site amazingly contains nine original buildings restored to their historic late 1860s appearance as well as one reconstructed building. You will see and feel history come alive as you explore the grounds. And, if you are fortunate, you may even hear the sounds of the Fort as living historians bring the Fort to life showing how soldiers and civilians lived on the frontier during the Indian Wars era. Fort Larned National Historic Site hosts several of the largest living history events in Western Kansas. Check out the event schedule or contact the site for more information.


    Familiarize yourself with the site using the list below. When you are ready to begin your tour and are standing on the bridge, select "Begin Tour: Passageway Into Time."