Fort Hays
Wild Bill's Fort
State: Kansas
County: Ellis County
Founded: 1865
Abandoned: 1889
Peak Population: Military post
Fort Hays protected railroad workers and settlers from Indian attacks. Wild Bill Hickok served as scout and lawman here. Buffalo Bill Cody got his name hunting buffalo for fort workers. Four original buildings survive.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Quick Facts
- Wild Bill Hickok
- Buffalo Bill's fort
- Four buildings survive
Location
Address: Fort Hays State Historic Site, KS
Coordinates: 38.8667, -99.3