From 1859 to 1878 Fort Larned supplied guard detachments to protect mail stages and wagon trains, and the post became known as one of the principal guardians of Santa Fe Trail commerce. A video and displays in the visitor center introduce you to the fort, and you'll notice that the interpretation of the fort's original buildings and the attention to detail is excellent. The infantry barracks exhibit guns, hats, and uniforms; he bunks are made up with army issue blankets; the 1868 commissary stocks salt pork, barrels of corn meal, and wooden boxes of potatoes; and boots stand beside the bed in the officers' family quarters. After the fort closed it was sold into private hands in 1884 and again in 1902, when it became a horse and cattle ranch. In 1966 it was transferred to the National Park Service and since that time the fort has become one of the best preserved authentic frontier posts in the American West. It hosts annual reenactments for public education and enjoyment. (8 Wonders of Kansas - History Finalist)