Forts in Nebraska facts for kids

A fort is a strong building or place that is built to protect people or an area. For hundreds of years, forts have played a big part in the history of Nebraska. These forts were used by different groups, including Native American tribes, fur traders, and the United States military. They helped protect trade routes, control land, and support settlers moving west.

Western ramparts of Fort Atkinson.

Nebraska State Historical Marker at Fort Robinson.

Restored Fort Kearny State Park looking from parade ground southwest over marked-off officers barracks foundation.

Detail of barracks at Fort Atkinson.

Famous Forts in Nebraska

Nebraska was once a very important place for travel and trade across the United States. Because of this, many forts were built here. Some were small trading posts, while others were large military bases.

Fort Atkinson: Nebraska's First Military Post

Fort Atkinson was the very first United States military fort built west of the Missouri River. It was established in 1819 near what is now Fort Calhoun. This fort was important for showing the United States' presence in the area and for trading with Native American tribes. Soldiers lived and worked here until 1827. Today, you can visit a reconstructed version of the fort and learn about life there long ago.

Fort Kearny: A Stop on the Oregon Trail

Fort Kearny was built in 1848 near present-day Kearney. It became a vital stop for pioneers traveling on the Oregon Trail, California Trail, and Mormon Trail. The fort offered protection, supplies, and a place for travelers to rest before continuing their long journeys west. It was a busy place, helping thousands of people move across the country until it closed in 1871.

Fort Robinson: A Key Military Outpost

Fort Robinson was established in 1874 near Crawford. It was one of the most important military posts on the Great Plains. This fort played a big role in conflicts with Native American tribes and later served many different purposes. During World War II, it was even used as a prisoner-of-war camp. Today, Fort Robinson is a state park where you can explore its history and enjoy outdoor activities.

Other Important Locations

Many other sites in Nebraska were also important, even if they weren't always called "forts." These included trading posts where people exchanged goods, and "camps" that were temporary military sites.

Trading Posts

Places like Cabanné's Post near Omaha (1822-1840) and Fontenelle's Post near Bellevue (1805-1856) were key spots for fur traders. They were often fortified to protect valuable goods and people. These posts helped build relationships between traders and Native American communities.

Modern Military Sites

Even today, Nebraska has important military installations. For example, Fort Crook (now part of Offutt Air Force Base) and the Omaha Quartermaster Depot in Omaha have served the country for many years, showing how military presence in Nebraska has changed over time.

List of Forts and Military Sites in Nebraska

Here is a list of some of the many forts and military sites that have existed in Nebraska. This list shows how many places were important for defense, trade, and travel throughout history.