
12/31/2022
The museum is closed today.
We would to wish you all a safe and happy time in your new year festivities!
Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Fort Douglas Military Museum, History Museum, 32 Potter Street, Salt Lake City, UT.
The mission of the Fort Douglas Museum is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of Fort Douglas and its impact on the history of Utah and the adjacent Western states.
Operating as usual
The museum is closed today.
We would to wish you all a safe and happy time in your new year festivities!
Yeah us! The Museum congratulates to our natural resources team for their diligence and passion for history, preservation and telling the stories of Utah’s military. Kudos, all.
Standing at the right place, at the right time, looking up to Admiral Dumke.
What have been your treasured moments at Fort Douglas?
The Museum will be open our regular hours: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm today through Friday, for all your Utah Military History treasure viewing needs.
We will be closed on Saturday, December 24th.
If you took a picture with Santa last Saturday (17th) send them our way!
If not, we have our little Santa whose always ready for a picture!
Photos from Fort Douglas Military Museum's post
The magic of Christmas has come to the Museum. Santa will be here Saturday, Dec. 17, 12-4 p.m. Come up, sit on the jolly Old Elf's lap and tell him what you want for Christmas. We've hoping for Peace on Earth and a candy cane or two.
We belong to an amazing group of people. Happy birthday to us!
Today, we celebrate our and in all 50 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia, who have served proudly and distinctively in every major conflict our nation has faced. These brave men and women embody the values and ideals on which our country was founded.
General Daniel Hokanson, Chief of the National Guard Bureau, said all Guard members, past and present, are united by an oath to the Constitution, a love of our country and state, and a willingness to sacrifice for something greater than themselves.
“From the founding of our Nation to today,” he said, “we are grateful to the National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, and all service members, who answered the call to serve. They represent a proud patriotic tradition.”
National Guard!
Wreaths Across America
10 a.m. Saturday, December 17, 2022
Remember. Honor. Learn.
Volunteering at the Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Fort Douglas Post. The US Naval Sea Cadets Maj. Brent R. Taylor Battalion is supporting this event.
Program highlights include:
10 a.m. Program at the Post Theater
(245 Fort Douglas Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT)
11 a.m. Laying of wreaths at Post Cemetery
(405 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT)
https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/19222/Overview/?relatedId=0
Timeline photos
One thing is certain - wherever Marines are called, they will fight and win - today, tomorrow, and into the future. Happy 247th Birthday, Marines!
...
(U.S. Air Force graphic by David Perry)
Join us in this Veteran Day tradition in celebration of those who keep us free.
The Utah National Guard will host the 67th annual Veterans Day Concert. This free and open-to-the-public concert will be held at the Tabernacle on Temple Square, beginning at 7 p.m., Nov. 11,
Join us in honoring our Veterans and Military. We look forward to seeing you. Enjoy!
Announcing the Utah National Guard's 67th annual Veterans Day Concert, 7 p.m., Nov. 11, 2022, at the Tabernacle on Temple Square in Salt Lake City.
The concert will feature the 23rd Army Band and a combined choir from the Granite School District. This entertaining event is open to the public, seating is first-come, first-served, unfortunately no overflow is available this year.
This event will be live-streamed on Facebook Utah National Guard.
Granite School District
Utah PTA
On this day 26 October 1862,
Order No. 14 was issued by Colonel Patrick Edward Connor, which officially established Camp Douglas. Named to honor the late Senator Stephen A. Douglas, at the suggestion of President Lincoln.
The California-Nevada volunteers had official orders to protect the Overland Mail Route between Carson, Nevada and Fort Laramie in the Wyoming Territory. They also, unofficially, kept an eye on the Union loyalty of citizens in Utah Territory.
Originally ordered back to Camp Floyd, or Camp Crittenden at the time, Colonel Connor found a more advantageous location by the foothills overlooking Salt Lake City. The troops made a temporary camp near the location of the present Post Cemetery, but soon moved their camp to the are of the present-day parade grounds.
Join us in wishing Fort Douglas a Happy 160th Birthday!
By way of celebration, visit the Fort Douglas Military Museum Monday-Saturday 12 pm to 5 pm, take a walk around the historic Fort Douglas district, join us this Saturday for our Cemetery Post Tour, take a moment to remember all those who served at Fort Douglas and who served in our armed forces. Write down your memories of Fort Douglas and send them to us, thank a veteran, and keep preserving the history of Fort Douglas!
The Museum honors those Utahns that have served in the armed forces defending freedom. Salute!
On this National Day of the Deployed, we remember our service members serving deployments and on assignment across the world. Thank you for your dedication and sacrifice in defense of our nation and its people.
Happy birthday to our Navy brothers and sisters. 247 years of services.
Happy 247th Birthday to the U.S. Navy! Today we remember the brave men and women of the Navy for their service in defense of our nation and freedoms.
Hey all Museum followers.
Tonight Director Beau Burgess will be giving a presentation of Fort Douglas and founder Patrick Conner as part of the Whitaker Museum's "Keeping Our Stories Alive" series. Come visit with us and hopefully learn something new.
7 p.m., October 11, 2022, Whitaker Museum, 250 N. Main, Centerville City Hall
To all our Gold Star Families, salute to the love and sacrifices you’ve shown for all.
Today, on Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day, the Utah National Guard honors the incredible sacrifice of all mothers, wives, and families of our fallen.
This special day recognizes the service and sacrifice that all Gold Star Family members make when a loved one dies while serving the United States Armed Forces.
Please take some time today to appreciate our Gold Star Mothers and Families for their sacrifice.
Today we’ve got WWII soldiers showcasing the legendary 104th Timberwolves and Civil War women sharing their stories of the West.
Museum’s open 12-5pm. Come up and mingle …
Fort Douglas Military Museum is hosting the annual National Reunion for the legendary 104th Division Timberwolves. We invite the public to learn more about this unit founded at the Fort.
Noon to 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 24
Come up to view displays, exhibits and an encampment by the Utah Living History Group. And chat with members of the National Timberwolf Pups Association.
Happy 75th birthday, U.S. Air Force! Since Sept. 18, 1947, the U.S. Air Force has held true to its motto, “To fly, fight, and win… airpower anytime, anywhere.” Thank you, active-duty and Veteran Airmen, for your service.
Keep all in your prayers.
Today we remember and honor the countless men and women taken prisoner and those missing in action in service of our people and nation. Their sacrifice, and the sacrifice of their families; will forever invoke reverence, gratitude and inspiration.
If you are struggling, reach out. You are not alone. We stand together.
Today is World Su***de Prevention Day.
Please remember you are not alone.
If you or someone you know needs someone to talk with, the UTNG Safe app can put you in contact with licensed mental health professional and is available 24/7. The app is for Utah National Guard members, civilian personnel, and their families, and is always confidential. Download the app today!
George Washington created the “Badge for Military Merit,” now known as the Purple Heart, 240 years ago, making it the oldest U.S. military award. Today, we honor Purple Heart recipients and their loved ones for their service and sacrifice.
Often referred to as the “Forgotten War” because it was not a resolved conflict and because it was squeezed between two larger wars. But at the Museum we want our Korean Veterans we will never forget the sacrifices of our hometown boys.
On this day in 1953, the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed. Today we remember and thank those who served and sacrificed, including the nearly 9,000 Korean War Veterans that call Utah home.
We enjoy being part of the Guard family. Celebrate that Pioneering Spirit.
Happy Pioneer Day!
The Museum is the venue for this creative, entertaining, informative experience. Two more performances tonight and Thursday. Get tickets at
https://www.deseretopera.org/mushroom-murders
Accolades to Wendy, her staff, teachers and most important to the students who have all learned the importance of looking back at our history so we can move forward. The Museum continues to be a partner and advocate for Utah History Day. Salute!
National History Day has helped students in middle schools and high schools around the country discover the value of the past.
The Museum has been actively involved with this amazing program. We've nominated veterans from WWII, Korean, Vietnam, Cold, Gulf wars and Global War on Terror. Know that each veteran has an honorable and compelling story -- take the time to share your veteran and their story. We're listening.
Do you know a veteran who you think should be recognized for their military service? Now is your chance to show your appreciation.
Each year, the University of Utah Veterans Day Committee selects 11 veterans to be honored based on noteworthy honor, courage, commitment, and sacrifice during their military service to our nation. Nominations are accepted for individuals living in Utah who served or serve in the U.S. Army, National Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard; on active duty or the reserves. Nominees do not need to be alumni of the university.
Follow the link for more information on how you can nominate a veteran.
https://veteransday.utah.edu/
Reach out to someone who you know suffers with PTSD and let them know they are not alone. Take the time to care, share and be there. It makes a difference.
June 27th is PTSD Awareness Day. If you or someone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to reach out. Find resources at https://veterans.utah.gov/healthcare/
To all our Dads thank you for all you do.
Happy Father’s Day to dads everywhere and especially those who serve in the Utah National Guard. Thank you for your service and sacrifice and we hope you have a wonderful day!
June 12 is recognized as Women Veterans Day. It is the day President Eisenhower signed legislation to allow women to serve in the Armed Forces. Utah has joined a number of states honoring our women veterans. The Museum adds their well wishes.
Rise and shine. Look tall. It's Flag Day.
Today is !
The United States commemorates Flag Day annually on June 14, the date when the design of our first flag was officially adopted by the Continental Congress.
Learn about Utah's Buffalo Soldiers that were stationed at Fort Douglas in this program on Utah's PBS station. The Museum was instrumental in preserving this history and in the sharing of their stories. Let us know what you think ...
Long before Bob Marley, Buffalo Soldiers — Black Americans who served on the Western frontier during the Civil War — were changing the face of the American West. We explore the uplifting, courageous, and inspiring story of Utah’s Buffalo Soldiers. Historians Fiona Robinson and Robert Burch she...
Come up to the Museum and get dirty with a hands-on activity in discovering history this coming Saturday. We’re looking for something interesting…
Come screen dirt for artifacts with archaeologists at Fort Douglas.
Salute.
On this day in 1944, Allied forces breached the German defenses along the Normandy coastline in France which would eventually lead to the liberation of Europe from the N**i regime and end WWII. Today, 78 years later, we remember the courage and sacrifice of those that stormed the beach on the D-Day invasion and delivered Europe from tyranny.
Today, take a moment to remember and honor the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom and this great country. We are forever grateful for their sacrifice.
On Memorial Day at the Fort Douglas Post Cemetery, the Utah Chapter of AUSA will host a small ceremony with a wreath laying and comments at 10 a.m.
The National Moment of Remembrance resolution asks for all Americans to voluntarily and informally observe a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time.
To find a ceremony near you, please visit the UDVMA at veterans.utah.gov/events/memorial-day-events-2022/
Today is International Museum Day. We're part of the world, come and discover something new in your world. The Museum is open today, noon to 5 p.m.
The world knew him first and honored him, it is so appropriate that our hometown hero is being recognized for his great and humble way of life. Now others will know him too.
The Provo Veterans Center will soon be renamed to honor the late Gail S. Halvorsen, affectionately know as the “Candy Bomber.”
Fort Douglas Military Museum is up next. Bring your objects of war and share them with us. We're recording artifacts' stories from 10am-2pm Saturday, May 14. We're looking forward to chatting.
32 Potter Street
Salt Lake City, UT
84113
UTA Trax
The mission of the Fort Douglas Museum is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of Fort Douglas and its impact on the history of Utah and the adjacent Western states. Admission is FREE
Tuesday | 12pm - 5pm |
Wednesday | 12pm - 5pm |
Thursday | 12pm - 5pm |
Friday | 12pm - 5pm |
Saturday | 12pm - 5pm |
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Tomorrow is the day. Come visit some of our more interesting citizens who are now resting in the old Fort Douglas Cemetery. Listen to real stories of their former lives and how they found their way to such a captivating place. History will be told by actors in costume and will be suitable for all ages. Bring the family. Come early! From 12 to 3 pm at Officer Circle join a fun trick-or-treat activity designed specifically for little ones whose neighborhoods might not be as conducive to pre-Halloween festivities. Come in costume and see all the Officers Circle houses decorated for fun. Admission is free
After the Civil War began in 1861 it was necessary to recall regular troops from frontier duty for action against the South, leaving the overland mail route to California unguarded from attack by hostile Indians. President Lincoln called for volunteers, and Patrick E. Connor was appointed Colonel (Brevet Major General) of the Third California Volunteer Infantry. Colonel Connor was directed to establish a post near Salt Lake City, both to protect the overland mail route and to keep an eye on the Mormons.
Camp Douglas (Fort Douglas) was established on 26 October 1862; it was named after the late Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois. Winter was approaching and dugouts were quickly built. The next summer log buildings were erected. The post was rebuilt of red sandstone in 1873–76 and the existing brick buildings were built in the early 1900s.
The first major Indian engagement for the troops was the Battle of Bear River in Idaho on 28 January 1863. A band of Shoshoni Indians were almost annihilated, nearly three hundred Indians were killed, while twenty-three soldiers were killed or died later. The volunteers were discharged by 1866 and were replaced by regulars from the 18th Infantry.
Rails were joined at Promontory, Utah, in 1869 permitting rapid deployment of the local troops. Fort Douglas units participated in the northern plains campaigns of the 1860s and 1870s and in the Sioux War of 1890. During the Spanish-American War of 1898, the 24th Infantry, a Black regiment stationed at Fort Douglas, fought gallantly in Cuba.
Fort Douglas expanded quickly during World War I as thousands of recruits arrived for their training. A general hospital was established in 1918 but was never completed, and a prisoner-of-war compound was built for German prisoners. The 28th Infantry, nicknamed “Rock of the Marne” in World War I for stopping a German offensive, arrived in 1922. The regiment departed in August 1940 and Fort Douglas temporarily became an air base in conjunction with the Salt Lake Municipal Airport.
After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Ninth Service Command Headquarters was moved from the Presidio, San Francisco, to Fort Douglas in January 1942. The fort also directed the repair of military vehicles and served as a finance center until 1947. Once again, a prisoner-of-war camp was established at the fort.
The Ninth Service Command was dissolved in 1946, and in 1947 the army announced that the fort was surplus and some land was turned over to the University of Utah and other agencies. However, the Korean War delayed dismantlement of the fort, which served as an induction center and administrative headquarters for the Utah Military District. The university received land in 1962 for a medical center and again in 1967 for a research park.
Closure of the post was announced in 1964; the flag was lowered on 25 June 1967 and Fort Douglas became a subpost of Fort Carson, Colorado. The army retained only the parade ground and many of the historic buildings, and also reserved water rights in Red Butte Canyon. The fort continued to serve as headquarters for the 96th Army Reserve Command. The fort was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975. In 1989 Congress finally approved closure of Fort Douglas as a military facility. Transfer of the fort to the University of Utah began in 1991 and was completed in late 1993.
By Charles G. Hibbard Utah History Encyclopedia, 1994
See: Leonard J. Arrington and Thomas G. Alexander, “The U. S. Army Overlooks Salt Lake Valley: Fort Douglas, 1862–1965,” Utah Historical Quarterly 33 (Fall 1965).
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