Fort Wingate

Fort Wingate is a former military installation in McKinley County, New Mexico, seven miles east of Gallup. It spreads across 22 acres at the foot of the Zuni Mountains between Zuni and Navajo territory along Interstate 40.

The installation was founded in 1862 during the American Civil War and served as a departure point for the forced relocation of the Navajo in 1864. After World War II, the military used the site as an ammunition depot for decades before closing it.

The installation bore the name of officer Benjamin Wingate and stands between Zuni and Navajo lands, whose older trails cross the surrounding area. Visitors notice the quiet around the empty buildings today, reminding them of a time when this place served military purposes.

Access is via Interstate 40, though the installation itself is not open for public visits. Those interested in the regional history find information panels along the road and can view the outer areas from the edge of the installation.

During World War II, the military trained Navajo radio operators here who later used their native language as encrypted communication. The grounds hold over 400 archaeological sites from prehistoric times, still scattered across the wide area today.

Location: McKinley County

Location: New Mexico

Inception: 1862

GPS coordinates: 35.46778,-108.54056

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28