That same year, the Texas Central Railroad was pushing through the region and Fort Griffin was working desperately to entice them through their city. However, the citizens of nearby Albany raised $50,000 to lure them through their town.

The small town survived for several years, gradually diminishing in size. By the 1940’s the school was consolidated with Albany’s and a short time later the post office closed.

Today, there are only a couple of original buildings left at the town site, but several “new” ones have been reconstructed over original foundations. What’s left of this once thriving town is situated on the Collins Creek Ranch, a wildlife habitat, working ranch, and commercial hunting property. Though privately owned, its owners do allow visitors on the property to view what’s left of this once lawless place.

The fort itself was preserved for years as the Fort Griffin State Historical Park; however, on January 1, 2008, the site was transferred to the Texas Historical Commission. The 506 acre park features the partially restored ruins of old Fort Griffin on the bluff overlooking the old town site and the Clear Fork of the Brazos River Valley. Several buildings remain including the mess hall, barracks, administration building, powder magazine, and the restored bakery. Other remnants include a hand dug well, cistern, numerous foundations, and a rock chimney. The small soldier’s barrack buildings have been recreated. A portion of the official Texas Longhorn herd resides in the park that also provides camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

With the Texas Historical Commission now operating the site, a few changes are currently being made, including clearing the mesquite trees and cactus from the fort, as these are not historically accurate. This vegetation came up the trail with the longhorns. The Visitor's Center will also be expanded and their are hopes that archaeological digs might be conducted in the future.

The site is open daily year-round. Fort Griffin is located on the Texas Forts Trail on U. S. Highway 283, about 15 miles northeast of Albany, Texas.

Contact Information:

Fort Griffin State Historic Site

1701 North US Highway 283
Albany, Texas 76430
325-762-3592