Fort Apache - A Historic Site in Whiteriver, Arizona. A reminder of a tragic past.

Landing at the small airstrip in Whiteriver, Arizona was a feat accomplished only by the most experienced pilots. As we arrived on our twin-engine 'Baron,' the four passengers were appreciative of a safe arrival.​

Whiteriver, Arizona is only a few miles north of the famed Fort Apache. The structures on Fort Apache have been restored to their original state. Touring the fort was a reminder of times past when Native Americans suffered greatly at the hands of American oppressors.​

The barracks and buildings have been completely renovated. Housed in the oldest structure at Fort Apache, an 1871 log cabin traditionally known as General Crook’s Cabin, The Fort Apache Legacy provides visitors with an overview of the history of the fort and its impact on the Apache people.

Twenty-seven historic buildings make up the core of the 288 acre National Register Historic District. Following maps available at the Museum, visitors can explore the district at their own pace.

Fort Apache Historic Park is certainly not pretty - an appropriate reflection on the ugliness of the events that occurred on this land by the American soldiers.

Interpretive signs located throughout the district explain the construction and use of the historic buildings and spaces and allow visitors to immerse themselves in the history of what many consider the best surviving example of an Apache Wars-era military post.

Visitors can also hike the Historic Park ’s recreational trails, including a 1.4-mile loop through the East Fork canyon that passes the site of an old Apache Scout camp and a small Ancestral Pueblo village.​

As I traveled back to Whiteriver to board the twin-engine plane for our 45-minute flight back to Scottsdale, it was difficult to escape the unbearable sadness of the present-day oppression and past atrocities inflicted upon Native Americans.

Indeed, the Apache scouts played a major role in America's military history. Yet, as I walked the land of this historic fort, I couldn't help but feel intense sadness from this restored symbol of 'man's inhumanity to man.'

Nomad's Lens

(taken with an iPhone X)