Along the Texas Forts Trail - Softcover

Aston, B. W.; Taylor, Ira Donathon

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1574410350 ISBN 13: 9781574410358

Publisher: University of North Texas Press, 1997

Synopsis

The task of providing military defense for the Texas Frontier was never an easy one because the territory was claimed by some of the greatest querrilla fighters of all times-the Comanches, Kiowas, Apaches, and Lipans. Protecting a line running from the Red River southwest to El Paso was an impossible task, but following the Mexican War the federal government attempted to do so by establishing a line of forts.

During the Civil War the forts were virtually abandoned and the Indians once again ruled the area. Following the war when the military began to restore the old forts, they found that the Indians no longer fought with bows and arrows but shouldered the latest firearms. With their new weapons the Indians were able to inflict tremendous destruction, bringing demands from settlers for more protection. In the summer of 1866 a new line of forts appeared through central Texas under the leadership of General Philip H. Sheridan, commander of federal forces in Louisiana and Texas.

Guardians of a raw young land and focal points of high adventure, the old forts were indispensable in their day of service and it is fitting that they be preserved. In and around the forts and along the route of the Texas Forts Trail, history is abundant and enduring.

Historian Rupert Richardson first wrote the travel guide of the fort locations for the Texas Highway Department. B. W. Aston and Donathan Taylor took the original version and revised and expanded it, giving additional historical information on the forts and their role in frontier defense, making this a valuable historical resource as well as a travel guide to the forts and surrounding towns.

About this title

Review:

This is a historical account, adventure story, and travel guide all in one. With driving directions, places to eat and sleep, and points of interest along the way, Along the Texas Forts Trail is an indispensable resource for anyone planning on touring one or many of the forts along this historic trail. After the Mexican War, the federal government established these forts to defend the new territory from the Comanches, Kiowas, Apahes, and Lipans. Abandoned during the Civil War, the forts were later restored and now provide an interesting glimpse into part of U.S. history. Stretching from Fort Richardson near Jacksboro in the north to Fort McKavett near Menard in the middle of the state, anyone interested in this slice of Texas's past will find Along the Texas Forts Trail an essential guide.

About the Author:

B.W. Aston was chairman of the History Department and director of the Rupert N. Richardson Research Center at Hardin-Simmons University.
Donathan Taylor is Associate Professor of History at Hardin-Simmons University.

About this edition

• Publisher: University of North Texas Press
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 1574410350
• ISBN 13: 9781574410358
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 165