Fort Apache (military post) facts for kids

Fort Apache was an important army post in Arizona. It was used by the United States Army from 1870 to 1924. The fort was built on the White River, close to where the town of Fort Apache, Arizona is today. This area is now part of the Fort Apache Indian Reservation.

Building a New Army Post

Fort Apache in 1873.

The army built Fort Apache at the end of a special military road. This road went into the land of the Apache people. The main reason for the fort was to help control the Coyotero Apaches.

How Fort Apache Got Its Name

At first, Fort Apache was just a temporary camp. It had a few different names over time. It was first called Camp Ord. Later, its name changed to Camp Mogollon, then Camp Thomas, and finally Camp Apache. In 1873, the camp became a permanent army base. Six years later, in 1879, its name was officially changed to Fort Apache.

Fort Apache Closes Down

In 1924, the army decided to close Fort Apache. This is called "disestablishment." After the army left, the fort was given to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This group used the buildings for a school called the Theodore Roosevelt Indian School.

Fort Apache Now: A Historic Park

Today, the old Adjutant's Office building is a United States Post Office.

Today, the old Fort Apache military post is part of a special area called the Fort Apache Historic District. This historic district is included within the larger Fort Apache Historic Park. Visitors can learn about the fort's history and how it was used long ago.