Fort Laramie was a privately built fort in 1834 located in Goshen County, Wyoming. It served and changed roles from being a trading post, diplomatic site, military installation to finally a historical site.

Early days of Fort Laramie

Fort Laramie which by the time was called Fort William (in honor of the owner William Sublette) came into popularity in 1934 after its completion. William and his friend built the fort to act as a trading post of the vast region. Fort Laramie changed hands after a short period of its existence when it was bought by an American Fur company. The US Army later took over its ownership from the company, turning it into a permanent military reservation. This was done to protect wagon trains of migrants on the trail. The fort was a major stopping point for nonnatives traveling for trade. Though there were some major hostilities in the area, Fort Laramie did not take part in many battles. The only known war was during the civil war when troops from the fort were withdrawn to fight in the confederate army. It also served as a major staging area for the military during its operational days.

The decline of Fort Laramie

The fort had a successful run as a military installation until the late 1880s. When the transcontinental railroad was introduced, Fort Laramie lost a great deal of its significance since trains changed routes. Fewer trains were bound west, killing the robust trade that was once seen in the region. Fort Laramie was officially decommissioned in 1810 and the troops were sent to a nearby Fort Logan. After it was decommissioned, it would take 9 years of rejection before troops were seen again in the Fort. Troops and mechanics came back a second time to take all the valuables from the fort including doors and windows. The rest of the structures were auctioned to the general public.

Fort Laramie Historic Site

In 1983, Fort Laramie was declared a historical site. Most of the buildings were demolished leaving only one structure that still stands to date. Although most of the extensive property of the fort was sold to the public, all the regions including the old sold pieces of land are under Fort Laramie Historic District. All the ruins of the site are under National Park Services. Fort Laramie National Historic Site is open to the general public for tours. The fort has been used by several film and gaming industries as a filming venue. Movies like White Feathers were shot at the fort. Fort Laramie State Historic Site is open for tours, hikes, camping, and many other recreational activities. A fee is charged at some sections of the Fort.