Nestled in the rugged landscapes of the American West, Fort McKinney, Wyoming, played a pivotal role in the region’s tumultuous history, transitioning from a temporary cantonment to a vital military post. This significant frontier fort, originally known as Cantonment Reno, served as a critical hub during the late 19th century, influencing the development and pacification of the Powder River Basin. The story of Fort McKinney, Wyoming, is a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and strategic importance of military presence in the evolving American frontier.
The Genesis: Cantonment Reno and General Crook’s Expedition
Before its official designation as Fort McKinney, the site began as Cantonment Reno, established on the west bank of the Powder River. This temporary base was strategically positioned to function as a crucial supply depot for General George Crook’s Big Horn Expedition. The expedition was a significant military campaign during the Great Sioux War of 1876-77, aimed at suppressing Native American resistance to westward expansion. Cantonment Reno, though short-lived, provided essential logistical support, enabling Crook’s forces to operate effectively in the harsh and expansive territory.
From Cantonment to Fort McKinney: A New Name, A New Purpose
The transition from Cantonment Reno to Fort McKinney honored Lieutenant John McKinney, a brave officer who tragically lost his life in the nearby Dull Knife Battle of 1876. This renaming marked a more permanent commitment to the region’s defense and stability. Initially, the fort was well-developed, but it soon faced considerable challenges that necessitated a relocation. Water and lumber shortages, critical resources for any frontier outpost, became persistent issues. In 1878, the decision was made to move Fort McKinney 45 miles northwest to a more sustainable location near present-day Buffalo, Wyoming, where it could better serve its strategic objectives.
The Fort’s Enduring Mission After the Indian Wars
With the major conflicts of the Indian Wars largely concluded, Fort McKinney’s primary mission evolved. While the era of large-scale military campaigns against Native American tribes was waning, the fort remained essential for maintaining peace and order. Its soldiers were tasked with two critical objectives. Firstly, they ensured that the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes, who had fiercely resisted encroachment, did not return to the warpath. This involved monitoring movements and diplomatic efforts to uphold treaties and prevent further hostilities.
Secondly, Fort McKinney played a crucial role in mediating relations among various Native American tribes, including the Crow, Arapaho, and Shoshone, and fostering peaceful coexistence with the new wave of settlers pouring into the Powder River Basin. The presence of the fort acted as a deterrent against inter-tribal conflicts and offered a measure of security for pioneers establishing homesteads in the rugged frontier.
Role in the Johnson County War
One of Fort McKinney’s most notable engagements beyond its initial scope occurred during the infamous Johnson County War of 1892. This conflict, rooted in disputes between wealthy cattle barons and small homesteaders, threatened to plunge Wyoming into widespread violence. President Benjamin Harrison directly ordered troops from Fort McKinney to intervene. Their mission was to quell the fighting and safely escort the prominent cattlemen and their hired Texas gunslingers out of the area. This swift action prevented further bloodshed and potential lynching by the enraged citizens of Buffalo, showcasing the fort’s importance not just in military defense but also in maintaining civil order during periods of intense social unrest.
The End of an Era and Legacy
Despite its significant contributions, the era of frontier forts was drawing to a close. Two years after its involvement in the Johnson County War, in 1894, Fort McKinney was officially closed. Its strategic necessity diminished as the region became more settled and the threats it was designed to address subsided. However, the legacy of Fort McKinney lives on. Today, the site of the former fort is home to the Wyoming Soldiers and Sailors Home, a fitting tribute to its military past. Remarkably, three of its original buildings still stand, serving as tangible reminders of a pivotal period in Wyoming’s history and the brave men who served there. The story of Fort McKinney stands as a testament to the dynamic and often challenging process of American expansion and nation-building.
