Fort Laramie

Views of Fort Laramie and looking westward from it.

Fort Laramie was the saving grace for more than one wagon train. It began as Fort William, a private trading post owned by William Sublette from 1834-1836. The American Fur Company owned it from 1836-1849 (and renamed it Fort John, though it was commonly called Fort Laramie). In 1849 the U.S. Army bought Fort Laramie and made it a military outpost along the Oregon Trail. They built stables, a bakery and officers' and soldiers' quarters to house the two complanies of mounted riflemen and one of infantry that were stationed there.

Fort Laramie was an important stopping place for wagon trains, a place where they could rest and often restock their provisions. It is mentioned in many trail diaries. As troubles with the Indians escalated after 1850, this fort became a strategic outpost for military operations. It is an awesome place to visit today, with some original buildings restored, some in ruins and others rebuilt, so a visitor can get an example of the fort in its many different stages and historical periods. It is also still out in the middle of nowhere, so the area surrounding it looks much like it did when the wagons roaled through on their way west.