Salina Stockade, Military fortification in Salina, Kansas
Salina Stockade was a Union-built fortification featuring an oval design with vertical logs buried deep into the ground for stability. The structure measured approximately 100 feet by 125 feet and included firing ports around its perimeter along with a reinforced gate positioned to control entry.
Union troops constructed this defensive structure in 1864 to protect Salina residents from raids occurring during conflicts between settlers and Native American tribes. The fort represented a direct military response to the escalating tensions in the region.
The fort served as a schoolhouse for Salina's first public institution starting in September 1864, blending civilian education with military operations. This dual purpose reflected the community's need to maintain normal life even during times of conflict.
The fort's location at the intersection of 7th Street and Iron Avenue in central Salina makes it straightforward to find and access. The site offers an open area where visitors can walk around and view the historical remains without requiring any special preparation.
The vertical wooden logs were buried three feet deep into the ground, an unusually robust construction technique for the time. This depth ensured the fortification could withstand significant stress and attack.
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