Remains of Fort Lowell hospital |
The adobe has deteriorated since Fort Lowell was abandoned by
the Army in 1891. Remains are covered by open sheds to protect them from the
elements.
The fort is located where Tanque Verde and Pantano creeks join
to form the Rillito River. The Hohokam tribe had lived there centuries earlier.
Fort Lowell replaces an earlier Army installation, Camp Lowell that was located
elsewhere in Tucson. The post is named after General Charles R. Lowell who died
from wounds suffered at the Battle of Cedar Creek.
Fort Lowell was in active use between 1873 and 1891, and was key
in protecting the Tucson area from Apache attacks. The post was a large
complex, serving approximately 250 soldiers and officers. It had an extensive
hospital, parts of which are standing today.
The Army decommissioned the post in 1891, with Mexican families
moving in after that.
The remains today can be seen from behind chain link fences. It’s
free to view them, but a museum nearby charges admission. The museum is
administered by the Arizona Historical Society. The museum is open only on
Fridays and Saturdays, though the grounds are open during the week.
The museum is located at 2900 N. Craycroft Road.
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