Explore the History and Culture at Fort Stanton LIVE 2024: Lecture Series Highlights!

Get ready for an exciting journey through time at Fort Stanton LIVE 2024! This year’s event promises a unique blend of history, culture, music, and hands-on activities. From captivating lectures and guided tours to dynamic musical performances and craft demonstrations, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the highlights:

Lecture Series

Gunfire in Capitan
Presented by Chuck Hornung, the foremost authority on the New Mexico Mounted Police, this lecture delves into the fascinating history of these territorial rangers. Hornung’s relationship with Fred Lambert, the last living member of the Mounted Police, has enriched his extensive research, which spans over six decades. His notable book series on the Mounted Police includes titles such as The Thin Gray Line and New Mexico’s Rangers: The Mounted Police. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the exploits and adventures of New Mexico’s lawmen from a true expert.

The Buffalo Soldiers of Fort Stanton
Join Oliver Horn, DCA Regional Site Manager, for an insightful presentation on the Buffalo Soldiers of the Ninth Cavalry. Discover how these brave soldiers, deployed to Fort Stanton from 1875 to 1881, navigated the complex cultural landscape of New Mexico while playing pivotal roles in both the Lincoln County and Apache Wars. Learn about their contributions to Fort Stanton’s infrastructure, including the construction of the Laundress Quarters and the Stables, and their lasting impact on the region.

Fort Stanton in the 1980s and 1990s
Karla Steen, a former Mental Health practitioner at Fort Stanton, will guide you through the often-overlooked chapters of the fort’s history during the 1980s and 1990s. Funded by the NM Department of Corrections and the Federal Department of the Interior, these decades were marked by notable events that shaped the fort’s recent past. This lecture offers a unique glimpse into the programs and initiatives that occurred during this period.

The 100-Year Legacy - Fort Stanton and the Kusianovich Family
Explore the rich legacy of the Kusianovich family, whose involvement with Fort Stanton dates back to 1923. Presented by Kenneth Walter, a former DCA employee, this lecture will cover the family’s remarkable contributions to the fort’s history and its enduring influence over the years. Discover how the Kusianovich family helped shape the story of Fort Stanton.

Fort Stanton Cave Study Project
Dive deep into the mysteries of Fort Stanton Cave, the second-longest cave in New Mexico and a site of significant scientific interest. Learn about the ongoing exploration and study efforts from the Fort Stanton Cave Study Project team, covering everything from the unique geological formations of Snowy River to the cave’s diverse biological ecosystem. This presentation is a must-see for anyone interested in natural history and exploration.

Guided Tour

The Soldiers of the Military Post Cemetery Tour
Step back in time with Kenneth Walter, a former DCA employee, as your guide. This immersive tour takes you to the old post cemetery, where you’ll hear stories of the soldiers who once served at Fort Stanton. Discover the original gravesites and learn about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers buried at the fort. It’s a compelling journey through the past that history enthusiasts won’t want to miss.

Musical Performances

Crow and Karla
Western singer/songwriters Dan Robert Crow and Karla "Friday" Steen bring the Old West to life through their music. Their performance, based on their album Sidekicks and Saddle Pals, combines storytelling with song to celebrate iconic figures like Billy the Kid and Stagecoach Mary Fields. This multimedia event is perfect for anyone who loves Western history and music.

Betty Benedeadly
Experience the unique sound of Betty Benedeadly, whose music blends elements of spaghetti westerns, surf rock, and psychedelic roots. Her dynamic performance promises to be a foot-stomping good time. As co-founder and guitarist of the womxn-led band Sheverb, Benedeadly brings a fresh and energetic vibe to Fort Stanton LIVE.

Quilt Demonstration

RuidoSew Quilters at the Commanding Officers Quarters
Immerse yourself in the art of quilting with the RuidoSew Quilters, including Vickie Arnold, Tracy Greenlee, Tina Whitfill, Renita Trujillo, Mary English, Cindy Hill, and Yolanda Espinosa. Visit the Commanding Officers Quarters to see a beautiful display of quilts, wall hangings, table toppers, and runners. These talented quilters will be on hand to share their techniques and stories. Plus, you can purchase a piece of this craftsmanship, with proceeds benefiting Fort Stanton Inc. (FSI).

Fort Stanton LIVE 2024 is more than just an event—it’s an experience that connects you with the rich history and culture of New Mexico. Don’t miss your chance to explore, learn, and celebrate at Fort Stanton! Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable weekend!

Admission

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 16 and younger. Tickets are available online now: Purchase Tickets.

Culture Pass Holders, Blue Star Families, New Mexico Museum Foundation Members, New Mexico Disabled Veterans, and Foster Families can enjoy free admission on the day of the event.

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Event Details:

  • Date & Time: Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

  • Location: Fort Stanton State Monument

  • General Information: Call 575-354-0341