Fort Gibson

Established in 1824, Fort Gibson served as a starting point for several military expeditions that explored the west and sought peace between the tribes in the region. It was occupied through most of the Indian Removal period then abandoned in 1857. The post was reactivated during the Civil War. The army stayed through the Reconstruction and Indian Wars periods, combating the problem of outlaws and squatters. In 1890, the army abandoned Fort Gibson for the last time.

Visitors to the site can see a reconstruction of the early log fort as well as original buildings from the 1840s through 1870s. Exhibits detailing the history of the fort are located in the Commissary Visitor Center on Garrison Hill. The site also hosts a number of special living history events and programs throughout the year.

Fort Gibson is a National Historic Landmark.

The National Park Service has announced the 11th National Historic Landmark Photo Contest: Imaging Our Heritage. Oklahoma has 20 National Historic Landmarks, including Fort Gibson! The contest runs through September 10, 2010. To find out more visit http://www.nps.gov/history/nhl/2010photocontest/.