Historic Fort Reno

This military post was established in 1874 to protect the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. Troops from the fort were instrumental in directing an orderly transition from reservations to individual farms, ranches and towns, and were the major force in supervising the Land Run of 1889. It served as two remount depots from 1908 to 1947, when it became an agricultural research station. It also served as a German prisoner of war camp in WWII. Much of the fort has been restored, and several activities are held on the site throughout the year. Over 25 historic structures are listed on the National Register ...

This military post was established in 1874 to protect the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. Troops from the fort were instrumental in directing an orderly transition from reservations to individual farms, ranches and towns, and were the major force in supervising the Land Run of 1889. It served as two remount depots from 1908 to 1947, when it became an agricultural research station. It also served as a German prisoner of war camp in WWII. Much of the fort has been restored, and several activities are held on the site throughout the year. Over 25 historic structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and several exhibits and displays are also available for viewing. Some include 1876 through 1948 Indian Wars, parade ground, cemetery and chapel built by German POW's in 1944. 70 POW's, Buffalo Soldiers and Indian Scouts are buried in the cemetery.

As an added bonus, restless spirits of cavalry soldiers, German prisoners of war, and others who have lived at Fort Reno over the last century are said to inhabit the old fort in El Reno. About once a month the fort offers lantern tours where you'll be scared silly by stories of these ghosts, unsolved mysteries, urban legends and murderous tales from the historic spot.