Fort Bridger in Uinta County, Wyoming — The American West (Mountains)

"Thornburgh" was a dog…

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, September 10, 2015

1. "Thornburgh" was a dog... Marker

Caption: "Thornburgh and Friends", Standing: John Car, J.B. Taylor, Jack Hilton, Al McCune; Seated: Bob Wilson, "Buck" Buchanan, Went Miles, "Thornburgh"

Inscription.
Named after Major T.T. Thornburgh who was killed in a fight with Ute Indians near White River Agency, September 29, 1879. The dog was a survivor of a wagon train burned during the battle and grew up as a military camp follower. Eventually he ended up a Fort Bridger.

On several occasions Thornburgh distinguished himself by his heroic deeds including catching a commissary thief; warning a sentinel of marauding Indians; saving the life of a soldier in a knife fight and rescuing a small boy from drowning.

At Fort Bridger, Thornburgh became the devoted companion of a freighter, "Buck" Buchanan, and the favorite of many who frequented the Post. Thornburgh died September 27, 1888 as the result of being kicked by one of Buchanan's mules.

It is said that Thornburgh's master lies in a unmarked grave in the city cemetery at Salt Lake City.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Animals.

Location. 41° 19.131′ N, 110° 23.436′ W. Marker is in Fort Bridger, Wyoming, in Uinta County. Marker can be reached from Business U.S. 80 near Main Street, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Fort Bridger WY 82933, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Grave of Thornburgh, the Dog (here, next to this marker); Carriage House, Stables and Chicken Coop

Paid Advertisement

Click on the ad for more information.
Please report objectionable advertising to the Editor.

Click or scan to see
this page online

(within shouting distance of this marker); Post Trader’s House (within shouting distance of this marker); The First School House in Wyoming (within shouting distance of this marker); School House, Milk House & Wash House (within shouting distance of this marker); Officer's Quarters and Enlisted Men's Barracks (within shouting distance of this marker); Ice House, Warehouse and Mess Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); Officer's Quarters (log) (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fort Bridger.

More about this marker. This marker is located on the grounds of Fort Bridger Historic Site. Obtain a map at the entrance or museum.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, September 10, 2015

2. "Thornburgh" was a dog... Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on October 6, 2022. It was originally submitted on November 16, 2015, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 576 times since then and 71 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 16, 2015, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.