Trip Planner:   USA  /  New Mexico  /  Watrous  /  Fort Union National Monument

Fort Union National Monument, Watrous

4.8

#25 of 84 in Historic Sites in New Mexico

National Park Monument Must See

• ©

A Fort for a Young Amerca

Exposed to the wind, within a sweeping valley of short grass prairie, amid the swales of the Santa Fe Trail, lie the territorial-style adobe remnants of the largest 19th century military fort in the region. For forty years, 1851-1891, Fort Union functioned as an agent of political and cultural change, whether desired or not, in New Mexico and throughout the Southwest.

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Fort Union National Monument Reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

136 reviews

Google

4.8

facebook

4.6

3,991 likes

• By Janet F

  Sign at the rest area said this was once the largest fort on the Southwest frontier. Not a lot left, but some interesting remnants. What struck us was how far it was in between places and how remote t...  more »

• By RondaTravelTime

  Authenticity! Enjoy the visionary past as you stroll along the Santa Fe Trail, visualize the events on the parade grounds, and observe the military housing where troops prepare for invading native tri...  more »

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Google

• By Adeel Faridi

  Definitely worth checking out this place if you like history. Beautiful scenery and lots of historical monuments to look at.

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• By Cynthia P

  I’ve awarded 5 stars for the preservation efforts and historical significance which is well worth the short detour (about 15 minutes off I-25). Fort Union has gone through three iterations. The last was the largest and most impressive. The National Park Service is going an excellent job in preserving and restoring this important landmark. Fort Union played an important role in the Civil War and trade and commerce. Fort Union supplied military installations for hundreds of miles and was the home to the first U.S. Calvary. The path is an easy walk and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. There is a short movie that is worth watching.

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