The Hospital

The Hospital. Any Attempt to relieve the suffering . . .. , . . . at Fort Phil Kearny was seldom successful at either of its two hospitals. The original hospital was a 24 by 84 foot structure similar to the barracks in construction. During this hospital’s short service it sadly served as the morgue for Fetterman’s command. During most of its existence the building functioned as an officer’s quarters and was home to Captain Powell during his time at the post., The second and primary hospital was built in 1867. It was an L-shaped structure incorporating panel construction and was 25 by 156 feet. The building either replaced or was attached to the bakery which was also located in this corner. The bakery attachment would have provided additional warmth and soothing aromas for the occupants. Little else is known about this building., Suffering at the post was considerable. There was constant skirmishing with the Indians outside the post resulting in numerous battle injuries. In addition to combat wounds the occupants might be suffering from disease including dysentery, scurvy, or tuberculosis which, records indicate, were prevalent at the fort due to diet and sanitation.