Fort Laramie in Goshen County, Wyoming — The American West (Mountains)

Infantry Barracks

Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 2, 2015

1. Infantry Barracks Marker

Inscription.
In answer to the perpetual need for housing, construction of an enlisted men’s barracks commenced at the opposite end of these foundation ruins. The barracks were extended in this direction as more men were assigned. Kitchens, mess halls, laundress’ quarters and latrines were built behind (to your left).
Home to about 150 men, the two-story barracks were sparsely furnished. Bunks, made of wood by the quartermaster, were two tiers high with each tier accommodating two men. The Indian wars term “Bunkie,” referring to a soldier’s closest comrade, derived from this sleeping arrangement.
The two-story barracks were replaced in 1868 by a one-story barracks.

Erected by National Park Service.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Forts and Castles. A significant historical year for this entry is 1868.

Location. 42° 12.186′ N, 104° 33.468′ W. Marker is in Fort Laramie, Wyoming, in Goshen County. Marker can be reached from State Highway 160, on the left when traveling west. Marker is located at Fort Laramie National Historic Site. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Fort Laramie WY 82212, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. “Officers Row” (a few steps from this marker); Old Bedlam (within shouting distance

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of this marker); Magazine (within shouting distance of this marker); The Sutler’s Store (within shouting distance of this marker); John (Portugee) Phillips (within shouting distance of this marker); The Pony Express (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named The Pony Express (about 300 feet away); Transcontinental Telegraph (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fort Laramie.

Also see . . . Fort Laramie National Historic Site. (Submitted on August 11, 2015, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)

Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 2, 2015

2. Infantry Barracks Marker

Marker at Fort Laramie image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 2, 2015

3. Marker at Fort Laramie

Infantry Barracks Marker and Ruins image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 2, 2015

4. Infantry Barracks Marker and Ruins

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on August 11, 2015, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 335 times since then and 13 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on August 11, 2015, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.