Living History at Fort Concho

   The Fort Concho Living History Program began in 1982 with a small infantry unit of twelve staff and volunteers. Over time a mounted cavalry unit was added, followed by Buffalo Soldiers, two wagons, an artillery unit, and a ladies program that portrays officer's wives and laundresses. Last year, nearly 100 men and women volunteered 8500 hours of service to the interpretation of military life on the western frontier.
    With the growth of the program came a necessary and welcome increase in the "stuff" of living history: uniforms and period clothes, weapons and supplies, tack and camp gear, furniture and personal items. The wagons, mules and artillery also required a new set of equipment and furnishings.
    Fort Concho was never blessed with a large public relations budget, and it became very clear that a living history program that could go "on the road" could publicize the site as well as educate the public. Thus the "road show" was developed with tents and a camp life arrangement that recreated an army on the march.
    Over the past ten years Fort Concho's living history volunteers have participated in parades, camps, and public celebrations across the state, in large cities and small communities, spreading the word about frontier military life while effectively promoting the site and its host city of San Angelo. Keeping the program effective both at home and away from San Angelo has been a challenge, but Fort Concho staff and volunteers are convinced that the living history activity has paid great dividends in public recognition across the state.
    For more information about Fort Concho, its programs, and the living history schedule, please contact the education department at (325) 657-4443 on weekdays, write Fort Concho at 630 South Oakes, San Angelo, TX 76903, or e-mail mailto:livinghistory@fortconcho.com.

To find out more about each unit or to see a schedule of events, click below:

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