Fort Washita was built in 1842 as the southwestern-most military post of the United States. The mission of Fort Washita was to maintain peace for the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations within their new lands, pursuant to treaty obligations.
There were many outside threats to the new home of the Chickasaw people, including attacks by Republic of Texas militia, constant raids and unsettled disputes with some of the Plains tribes, interference by unscrupulous intruders and the presence of traders and trappers.
Fort Washita operated as a United States military post until the start of the Civil War in 1861. It was then occupied by Confederate forces through 1865. The fort was almost entirely destroyed by the Confederates as they fled at the end of the Civil War.
After the war, the fort was granted to the Chickasaw Nation. Later, the Dawes Commission allotted the fort and surrounding land to Charles and Abbie Davis Colbert and their family.
The Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) acquired Fort Washita in 1962 and restored it as a historic site and museum. In 2017, the Chickasaw Nation purchased the historic site from OHS and continued the restoration efforts. Today, the Chickasaw Nation assumes responsibility and management of Fort Washita. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Visitors to Fort Washita can tour restored structures, witness Civil War reenactments and take part in the yearly fur trade era rendezvous. At this event, guests can experience what life was like before and during the Civil War. Other events throughout the year include storytelling, outdoor movies and seasonal and holiday events that the whole family can enjoy.
More Information:
Group tours are available but must be scheduled in advance.
Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Sunday and Monday