The United State established Fort Hays (originally called Fort Fletcher) as a U.S. Army post in 1865. The fort’s function, like other frontier forts, was to protect railroad workers and settlers as they traveled west. They were also tasked with enforcing treaties with Indian tribes.

The fort grounds included 7,650 acres of land, but its 45 buildings were situated on just 65 of those acres. Today only four buildings remain, as well as a visitor center, on a fraction of the original fort property.

Honestly, when we first saw the property, we thought it would be a quick visit. But, besides the four buildings, there are several foundations that outline other former buildings. Those foundations, together with signage throughout the property and exhibits inside the existing buildings, make a great self-guided tour. We ended up spending several hours exploring Historic Fort Hays.