Spanning 82 acres in the Pecos River valley, Fort Lancaster and Battlefield State Historic Site commemorates the vestiges of one of several posts established in the 1850s that played an important role in westward expansion by providing escorts for mail carriers, wagon trains, and settlers on the San Antonio–El Paso Road en route to California. Today, visitors wander through ruins imagining the once-impressive establishment of over 30 permanent buildings—including a blacksmith shop, hospital, sutler’s store, and bakery—and enjoy the sights, sounds, and wildlife of West Texas.

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Location

629 Fort Lancaster Rd.  
Sheffield, TX 79781 
432-836-4391 
Contact us
See map

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Hours

Tuesday to Saturday 
9 a.m.–5 p.m.

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Tickets

Adult $5
Senior/Veteran/Teacher/First Responder $3
Child (6-17) $2
Child (5 and under) Free
Family (2 adults & 1 child) $8, each additional child $1

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Programs

School Tours 
Group Tours

Reenactors standing in front of ruins

Plan Your Visit

At Fort Lancaster and Battlefield State Historic Site, visitors can tour the remnants of a 19th-century military fort that at one time had over 30 structures. 

Tents set up on the grounds during a living history event

Fort Lancaster History

After the Mexican War (1846-1848), the U.S. Army was charged with the defense of settlements and with the protection of travelers through Western Texas.

Ruins on the grounds

Support the Fort Lancaster Company

Fort Lancaster Company is a "Fiscally Sponsored Project" of the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission (a 501(C)(3) nonprofit charitable organization). Your gift will directly support this organization. 

Fort Lancaster and Battlefield in the Blog

Picture of a man looking at a metal plaque

Explore the THC's Frontier Forts

Discover the forts and other attractions awaiting visitors out on West Texas.