Created to protect travelers on the Santa Fe Trail, the small post was built entirely of sod buildings. Field mice became such a problem that the commanding officer requisitioned cats from Fort Leavenworth.  The fort only lasted four years, from 1850 to 1854. The original plaques also note that Caches, a famous campsite and a location of an early army headquarters, was just northwest of the marker.

To see the small monument that shows the location of Fort Atkinson and a historical marker follow these directions: From Central, 3 miles west on U.S. 50, 1/4 south on 108, then 3/4 mile west on Kettle Way. At the end of the street is the monument and sign. A home has now been built on the site of the original fort. Please do not enter drive.