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Fort Craig |
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Fort Craig was one of the largest frontier forts in the West. The Fort was established in 1854 to control Apache and Navajo raiding and protect the central portion of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro. Military excursions from Fort Craig pursued such notable Apache leaders as Geronimo, Victorio and Nana. The Fort has a rich multi-cultural history, full of stories of courage, honor and sacrifice. The Fort was home to the predominantly Hispanic New Mexico Volunteers and New Mexico Militia as well as household names like Kit Carson and Rafael Chacon and Captain Jack Crawford.
Fort Craig is perhaps most famous for the bloody Civil War Battle of Valverde that occurred just north of the Fort. This battle occurred in February 21, 1862 when Confederate soldiers clashed with Union troops stationed at Fort Craig. Confederate forces eventually bypassed the fort and went on to capture Albuquerque and Santa Fe before being turned back at the Battle of Glorieta in March of 1862.
To view a list of US Army & volunteer military units that served at Fort Craig -- click Here.
Fort Craig is open during daylight hours, and offers self-guided tours, modern restroom and picnic facilities and interpretive signs and facility. Fort Craig is located about 5 miles north and 5 miles east of Exit 115 on I-25 in New Mexico -- about 125 miles north of Las Cruces or 35 miles south of Socorro. For further information call (505) 835-0412 or click here.
Fort Craig celebrated it's 150th anniversary during Nov 5-7, 2004 -- to view images click here.
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