Nevada is a state with a long and fascinating history. Reminders of our state’s past are everywhere. Often these reminders contain a hypnotizing sort of allure to them. Sometimes we pass by them without even noticing. There’s something truly amazing about looking at a gathering of strange ruins and knowing that they held an important spot in the Silver State’s history. Surprisingly few people know about this incredible park which is home to some of the most stunning ruins in the state. The ruins are a reminder of a tumultuous time, but the sense of peace they hold today will enchant you.
Fort Churchill State Historic Park near Silver Springs is an incredible reminder of our state's fascinating history. Within the park are ruins of a Civil War era Army fort. Today, the park is silent as can be but you still get a sense of the many stories that remain there.
The fort was originally established in 1860 to protect early settlers and the mail route that ran along the Pony Express. During the Civil War, the fort was an important source of supplies for the Union Army. At this time, the fort was usually bustling with hundreds of soldiers.
It wasn't long after the Civil War that the fort became abandoned, and remained that way for over half a century. It wasn't until the 1930s when the property was purchased by the Daughters of the American Revolution and it didn't even become an official state park until 1957.
The remains tell the story of what life was like for U.S. soldiers over 150 years ago. However, the crumbled buildings leave you with only a small sense of what the original fort looked like in the 1860s.
Another important structure resides in the park called Buckland Station. Samuel S. Buckland was a rancher who came to the area around the time the fort was being built. When the fort became abandoned, he salvaged materials from it in order to construct the two-story station that still stands today.
That station went on to become an important stop along the Pony Express. The building currently operates as a museum which explains the history of the region and what life was like for Nevada's early pioneers.
A self-guided hiking trail runs around the fort's ruins with interpretive signs along the way. The sight of the remnants against the backdrop of beautiful Nevada desert is unparalleled.
Nearby is a 20-site campground which sits by the Carson River, secluded within groves of Cottonwood trees. This would definitely make a memorable place for a camping trip!
It's somewhat of a miracle that these historic structures are still standing at all. So much has happened between then and now, and yet these buildings remain untouched.
Tip: plan your visit to the ruins when there is a Civil War reenactment going on. Seeing all of the "soldiers" dressed in period garb at the fort is sure to transport you back in time.
It's hard to believe these silent ruins were once home to hundreds of people. If you visit, please be sure to be respectful of the area and leave it exactly as you found it. You'll find it at 10000 U.S. 95 Alternate, Silver Springs, NV 89429.
Have you been to Fort Churchill State Historic Park? If you love seeing all of the incredible ruins our state has to offer, check out this Abandoned Places Road Trip Through Nevada.
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