Fort Yellowstone- Cavalry Barracks

The first of these wooden barracks no longer exists. The northern-most barracks (built in 1897) is now the Yellowstone Center for Resources. Originally built to house 68 men, a basement was built in 1909 under one wing so the building could house 100 men.

A typical day began at 5:30 a.m. at the stable, just behind the barracks, where horses were fed. From that time until almost noon, soldiers groomed their mounts, inspected their equipment, and fed and watered the horses at least one more time.

The rest of the day might be spent patrolling the Mammoth Hot Spring Terraces to prevent visitors from chipping away souvenirs, practicing on the firing range, or participating in ceremonies and demonstrations for visiting dignitaries.

At the Post Exchange a soldier with free time could spend it in the gymnasium or bowling alley, or could play cards, drink beer, or buy sundries.

Information Provided by the National Park Service.