Visit These Fascinating Ruins In Washington For An Adventure Into The Past
By Courtnie Erickson|Published April 20, 2021
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
As you explore the beautiful state of Washington, you will come across many buildings, structures, and even ruins that have a fascinating story. One such place is Fort Spokane in the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. As part of this gorgeous historic site, you can view the remains of Fort Spokane’s Bachelor Officers’ Quarters.
Fort Spokane was built in 1880 by the United States Army.
Built near the Spokane River, the fort was designed to protect the city of Spokane from Colville and Spokane Indian tribes who lived in the area.
By 1884, there were approximately 25 buildings in the area. Over the next several years, 50 buildings were constructed including the Bachelor Officers’ Quarters.
In 1898, during the Spanish-American War, troops were moved from the fort. Approximately a decade later, the post became a boarding school for Indian children.
While there is little remaining of the Bachelor Officers’ Quarters, the National Park Service has preserved and restored several other buildings in the area.