Camp Stambaugh (Wyoming) facts for kids
Camp Stambaugh was a small U.S. Army outpost, like a mini-fort, located in the Wyoming Territory. It was built in the Wind River Mountains, close to two mining towns called South Pass City and Atlantic City. This area was known for its gold mining.
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Why Was Camp Stambaugh Built?
Camp Stambaugh was set up in June 1870. Its main job was to help keep the peace between miners and Native Americans. Sometimes, there were conflicts in the area, and the army wanted to protect the settlers and miners.
Who Was Charles B. Stambaugh?
The camp was named after a brave soldier, First Lieutenant Charles B. Stambaugh. He was killed just a month before the camp was built, while trying to protect settlers during a raid. Naming the camp after him was a way to honor his courage and sacrifice.
Who Lived at the Camp?
The soldiers who lived and worked at Camp Stambaugh were from Company B of the 2nd Cavalry. They came from a larger army post called Fort Bridger. These cavalry soldiers were skilled riders and were important for patrolling the area.
When Did Camp Stambaugh Close?
Camp Stambaugh didn't last very long. It was abandoned in 1878, just eight years after it was established. The main reason it closed was that the mining towns nearby, like South Pass City and Atlantic City, started to lose a lot of their people. When the gold ran out, miners moved away, and there wasn't as much need for an army presence.
