Fort Stanton was established in 1855 in the New Mexico territory to protect the near by town of Rio Bonito (which later became Lincoln) from Mescalero Apache raids. The military engaged them until establishing a reservation which included Fort Stanton. In 1871 the reservation was relocated 30 miles south.
The military briefly abandoned the fort during the civil war in 1861. They attempted to burn the fort to the ground, but monsoon rains put of the fires later that evening. The Confederates occupied the fort for a few months before abandoning it themselves. Three years later the military re-established a presence at the fort. Fort Stanton was active until 1896 when the military abandoned the fort for the last time.
So much rich history here! Wonderful shot, Ryan. My dad would have really enjoyed seeing your pics and reading the histories in your own words. This place HAS to be haunted. =)
