Fort Selden State Monument
Fort Selden State MonumentRadium Springs, NM
I-25 Exit 19
13 miles north of Las Cruces, NM
Long before it was ever Fort Selden this site was
recognized by Native Americans for its strategic location
and over time became one of the Southwest’s primary
trade routes. Established by the U.S. government in
1865, the fort housed troops who protected settlers
from desperados and Apache Indians.
It became the
home to several units of black troopers, referred to as
“Buffalo Soldiers,” who distinguished themselves by their
humane service to the Indians.
A young Douglas MacArthur lived at the fort while his
father was post commander, calling it “the happiest
days of my childhood.” Explore this intriguing part of
history layered in the ruins of a western fort as you
travel along the Camino Real National Scenic Byway.
Open Wednesday through Monday, 8:30 am - 5 pm. Closed Tuesday.
Information and images courtesy of the Museum of New Mexico
