Further along US-190, 17 miles from Menard, then another six miles south on Hwy-864, Fort McKavett (daily; $2; 325/396-2358) was established in 1852 as the “Camp on the San Saba” by the 8th Infantry. It was soon renamed in honor of a U.S. Army colonel who was killed in the Battle of Monterrey during the war with Mexico. As with other west Texas forts, Fort McKavett served as a first line of defense against Comanche raids along the Texas frontier and provided protection for travelers along the Upper San Antonio–El Paso Trail. Temporarily abandoned in 1859, the post was re-established in 1868 by the 4th Cavalry after local residents lobbied for Army protection. The cavalry was soon replaced by the 38th Infantry, a company of African-American troops. All four of the Army’s black units, whose ranks came to be known as “Buffalo Soldiers” by the Indians, eventually served at McKavett, including the famous 9th and 10th Cavalries. Fourteen of the original 40 buildings have been restored, including the officers’ quarters, barracks, hospital, school, bakery, and post headquarters. Seven other buildings lie in ruins, and the rest are gone. The hospital ward serves as a visitors center and contains interpretive exhibits explaining the natural and military history of the area. A nature trail leads to the old fort kiln and the Government Springs.
