Named for General Winfield Scott, the fort originally was established in 1842. Soldiers garrisoned here until 1853 to maintain peace between indigenous and relocated Indian tribes. In 1855 the government auctioned the fort structures to newly arriving settlers, and the area became the nucleus of the town of Fort Scott. Soon proslavery and free-state citizens were caught up in the turmoil of Bleeding Kansas as they argued over the question of statehood. During the Civil War, soldiers returned to Fort Scott, and it became the supply and logistical center for the Union Army of the West. Today this restored post, administered by the National Park Service, showcases 20 historic structures (11 original and 9 reconstructed) with excellent exhibits inside the buildings and on the grounds. (NRHP) (8 Wonders of Kansas - History)