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"
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. It can be reached from Business U.S. 80 near Main Street, on the left
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Wyoming’s Uinta Mountains and in the Westward Expansion Trails Region. It is also in the American Mountain West. Globally, it is in North America, the Rocky Mountains, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once Mexicos Alta California.
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 (within shouting distance of this marker); Post Traders 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
Photographed by Barry Swackhamer, September 10, 2015
2. "Thornburgh" was a dog... Marker
More about this marker. This marker is located on the grounds of Fort Bridger Historic Site. Obtain a map at the entrance or museum.
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 1,293 times since then and 53 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 16, 2015, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.
