Built by fur traders near the North Platte River in 1834, this key Oregon Trail fort was garrisoned by the Army in 1849. Fort Laramie helped pave the way for the Pony Express, transcontinental telegraph and overland stage routes. Major campaigns against hostile Indian tribes were launched from this bastion until it closed in 1890.Half of its 22 buildings have been restored and furnished to their 19C appearance. The 1884 commissary holds a visitor center and museum with artifact displays, historic photos and other exhibits, including a scale model of the fort in its heyday.