Old Fort is situated near the headwaters of the mighty Catawba River, and in many ways it has also stood at the headwaters of American history--it takes its name from a fort that was the westernmost outpost of white settlement in America at the time of the American Revolution. After the Civil War, Old Fort was the base of operations for the extension of the railroad up the steep mountain grade to Ridgecrest, an accomplishment that is still considered a marvel of engineering and perseverance. A tract of wilderness in the Curtis Creek area was the first parcel of the Pisgah National Forest. The dedication of Old Fort's arrowhead monument in 1930 marked the first time that representatives of the Cherokee and Catawba tribes shared a peace pipe. More recently, one of the earliest acts of courage in the civil rights movement took place on the steps of Old Fort School. Old Fort showcases the rich heritage of this McDowell County town.

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Reproduction of the original: The Story of Old Fort Dearborn by J. Seymour Currey

"Fort James Jackson has been the silent sentinel protecting Savannah, Georgia, for over 200 years. Never taken by force, its soldiers also never fired a shot in anger, only in celebration ... However the soldiers at the fort faced many challenges, including disease, cold, heat, mosquitoes, poor nutrition, and stress. Active during wartimes, the fort was often quietly abandoned between wars ..."--Back cover

Old Fort Garland' emerges as a fascinating anthology that weaves together a tapestry of narratives, memoirs, and historical essays, each contributing to the rich tableau of the American West. This collection combines an impressive range of literary styles, from the sharply analytical to the deeply personal, all orbiting the historical significance and multifaceted legacy of its titular subject. Notably, the anthology refrains from privileging any single perspective, instead presenting a kaleidoscopic view that underscores the complexity and enduring intrigue of Fort Garland and its role in the broader narrative of American expansion and conflict. Significant within this compilation are pieces that illuminate lesser-known facets of this history, offering fresh insights into the lived experiences of those who called the fort and its surrounding territories their home. Rosamund Slack and James T. Forrest, both acclaimed for their contributions to historical and literary scholarship, serve not only as editors but as guiding lights, curating a collection that resonates with the dynamism of the past. Their backgrounds, deeply rooted in American historical studies, bring together diverse voices from various epochs, cultures, and viewpoints, showcasing the fort as more than a mere military outpost but as a microcosm of the American mosaic during pivotal moments of change and development. 'Old Fort Garland' presents itself as an essential read for anyone keen on delving into the complexities of American history through the lens of literature. It offers an unprecedented opportunity to engage with a variety of perspectives, encouraging a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the historical significance of Fort Garland. Readers interested in the intersections of history, culture, and literary expression will find this anthology a valuable and enlightening addition to their collection, inviting a deepened appreciation for the ways in which stories of the past continue to shape our collective memory and identity.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1883.