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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 is preserved as the
Fort Griffin State Historical Park. 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.
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 Park & Historic Site
1701 North US Highway 283
Albany,
Texas
76430
325-762-3592
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