Fort Griffin, Military historic site in Shackelford County, Texas.
Description
Fort Griffin occupies a plateau overlooking the Clear Fork of the Brazos River, displaying stone buildings, barracks, and administrative structures from the 1860s frontier era. The ruins spread across open grassland and offer a view into the military life of that time.
History
Four companies of the Sixth Cavalry founded the post in 1867 to protect settlers from Comanche and Kiowa raids. The army abandoned the fort in 1881 after threats diminished.
Culture
The Fort Griffin Fandangle, performed each summer since 1938, stands as the longest-running outdoor musical show in Texas, celebrating frontier traditions. The production brings to life the customs and daily routines of the border region.
Practical
The grounds offer 33 camping areas, hiking trails, and educational exhibits, while regular demonstrations of frontier military life take place. The ruins sit on open terrain, so sun protection and comfortable shoes are advisable.
Did you know?
The Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd lives here, preserving a cattle breed that shaped the ranching heritage of the region. The animals graze freely across the grounds and give a sense of the 19th-century cattle trade.
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