Fort D.A. Russell

Fort D.A. Russell is a military historic site in Cheyenne featuring dozens of 19th-century buildings and structures spread across a large area of terrain. The buildings reflect different architectural styles and purposes that evolved as the installation changed its military role over time.

The Army built this fort in 1867 to protect railroad workers during the nation's expansion westward into new territories. Over the following decades the installation shifted from cavalry operations to air force functions, each phase adding new structures and purposes to the grounds.

The fort served for decades as a home to Black regiments whose presence shaped the base's identity and left visible marks on its buildings and grounds. This military heritage remains evident in the structures and monuments scattered throughout the site today.

The site welcomes visitors throughout the year with guided tours that explain the different military periods and building types. Wear comfortable shoes since the structures are spread across a large area and walking is the main way to explore.

The fort kept buildings from each military era, offering a rare visual record of how military technology and operations transformed over time. Visitors can stand in a basic cavalry barracks then walk to more modern aircraft hangars, seeing the progression firsthand.