Fort Wyman, Civil War fortification in Rolla, United States

Fort Wyman was a rectangular earthen fortification located on a hill along Highway 63, designed with a dry moat and strategic gun positions at each corner. The structure provided good sight lines over the surrounding terrain and controlled access to the railroad terminus.

Rolla was taken by General Franz Sigel on June 12, 1861, and stayed in Union hands for the whole war under Lincoln's order to hold it. After the defeat at Wilson's Creek on August 10, 1861, Union troops fell back to Rolla and built the earthen fort on a hill beside present Highway 63, about a mile from the courthouse. It was named for Colonel John B. Wyman.

The fort served as a visible symbol of Union military control in the region, with soldiers regularly moving through the surrounding area. Local residents experienced the constant military presence as part of daily life during the conflict.

The hilltop location provides good visibility of the surrounding area and the site is accessible from Highway 63. Visitors should be prepared for open terrain and changing weather conditions throughout the year.

The four "32-pounder" guns arrived by rail and were hauled to the fort on August 18, 1861, each by a team of ten mules. Once in place at the corners, they were fired only for practice, never in combat.