Fort Logan (Colorado) facts for kids
Fort Logan was a military base near Denver, Colorado. It was active from 1887 to 1946. First, it was called Fort Sheridan. In 1889, it was renamed after John A. Logan. He was a famous general during the American Civil War.
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Why Was Fort Logan Built?
People in Denver were worried about safety. Many new settlers were moving in from the east. So, they asked the United States Army to build a military base. In 1886, a bill was passed to build the fort. It opened in February 1887.
The fort was first called "the camp near the city of Denver." Soldiers from the 18th Infantry arrived. They came from Leavenworth, Kansas and Fort Hays. They built temporary homes and guard posts. Later, permanent buildings were constructed. The fort's first job was to help with local disagreements. These included arguments between citizens and workers.
Naming the Fort and Honoring Heroes
A cemetery was created at the fort in 1889. The first person buried there was Mable Peterkin. She was the daughter of a soldier. She passed away on June 28, 1889.
In August 1889, the fort got its new name: Fort Logan. It was named for General John A. Logan. He led volunteer soldiers for the Union Army during the Civil War. After the war, he led a group called the Grand Army of the Republic. He also created "Decoration Day" on May 30. This day is now called Memorial Day. It honors soldiers who died in wars. In 1889, the town of Fort Logan was also established. It included the base and the land around it.
Fort Logan Through the Years
During the Spanish–American War, Fort Logan helped prepare soldiers. It worked with Camp Adams, a temporary base. In 1908, the fort grew by 340 acres. The next year, it became a place where new soldiers joined the army. This is called a recruiting post.
Fort Logan was the only major military base in Colorado during World War I. It kept working as a recruiting post until 1922. Then, the 38th Infantry unit was stationed there. The fort officially closed in May 1946.
What Happened to Fort Logan After It Closed?
After the fort was no longer needed, parts of the land were used for new purposes. In 1949, some land became the Fort Logan National Cemetery. This is a special burial ground for veterans.
One of the old officer's homes was saved. It was built in a style called Queen Anne style. This building was turned into a museum. In 1960, most of the remaining land was given to the state of Colorado. It was then used to create the Fort Logan Mental Health Center.
