Historic Forts Day at the Center was well attended inspite the 40-50 mph spring winds that persisted all day Saturday.
Some of the outside exhibits were moved inside, ensuring our visitor's (and participants) didn't miss a thing.
El Camino Real
International Heritage Center, in conjunction with the Foundation, hosted this year's Historic Forts Day. It was a special
day of presentations and exhibits at the Center to learn about the Army forts that were built along the historic
El Camino Real. Additionally, those in period dress were a "living history" to our visitors in portraying the soldiers,
men and women that traveled or were stationed along El Camino Real.
This included the often forgotten Buffalo soldiers,
serving in New Mexico from the Civil War until about 1900. Some companies were stationed at Fort Selden, near Las Cruces, and
Fort Craig near the Center, providing escort service to travelers and caravans along the trail through the deadly Jornada del
Muerto. As such, Buffalo soldiers are a part of the history and heritage of El Camino Real trail, and well presented during
the day's activities.
Fred Hampton, of the New Mexico Humanities Council, gave presentations on Army life in the 1800s along
the trail from the Buffalo soldier's point of view. Van Sanders assisted with further history, insights and stories of the Buffalo
soldier in the West.
Historic Forts Day attracted history buffs and others from around the state, attending the presentations
and admiring the many excellent authentic Army and frontier artifacts on display. Some of the younger people seemed to truly
enjoy learning about Army life in the 1800s, and the sharp contrast to today's Army.
Thanks to all who helped make Historic Forts
Day a memorable event, from those who gave their time with the presentations and exhibits, to the Center staff.
Your support
of the Foundation ensures programs like these continue at the Center, presenting the history and heritage of the trail to
all.
Exhibits included period dress, frontier tools and kitchenware, medicines and other items to demonstrate frontier life along the trail in the 1800s.
Fred Hampton, of the New Mexico Humanities Council, during one of his presentations at the Center for Historic Forts Day.
Van Sanders is always popular for his authentic portrayal of a Buffalo soldier, not only for his period dress, but extensive knowledge of these famous men.
History buffs and other interested parties from around the state enjoyed the presentations and exhibits during Historic Forts Day at the Center.
