Hold the Fort
In our Jan/Feb. 2009 issue, we reported a hospital project promised to inject new life into Fort Bayard in southern New Mexico. The 1866 compound has ties to the Buffalo Soldiers, Indian Wars and the fight against Mexican Revolutionary Pancho Villa.
In late January, an arson fire almost destroyed a two-story residence at the fort; only the foundation remains.
Leaders of the volunteer Fort Bayard Historic Preservation Society say other structures are in bad shape due to squatters. Graffiti covers the walls. Most buildings are deteriorating at a rapid pace.
New Mexico officials estimate the annual maintenance cost is $500,000. The state, which owns the fort, doesn’t have the money. Neither do local governments. Unless something is done, Fort Bayard may literally fall to the ground.
575-388-4477 • FortBayard.org
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