By William F. Haenn.
Charleston, SC: History Press, 2023.
ISBN 978-1-46715-556-4.
Maps. Images. Notes. Bibliography. Index. Pp. v, 163.
$24.99.
Fort Clark, Texas, is a little-known outpost crucial to the defense of the west Texas border as well as a staging and training area for troops deploying to the two World Wars. First established in 1852, the fort became the home of some of the finest military architecture preserved in the United States. Author William F. Haenn documents the rich history and explores the varied and unique examples of the Army’s functional architecture. He shares his perspective not only as a scholar and well-read historian, but as a thirty-year resident of the post. This well-written book begins with an explanation of the Texas Historical Commission’s nomination to include Fort Clark in the National Register of Historical Places and the issuance of historical markers for selected structures and sites. The roles of many state and federal organizations, and the sometimes arduous process of filing applications, are highlighted demonstrating the significance of this fort.
The interesting journey of this piece of military history continues in chronological sequence by periods of construction and development, architectural detail, intended uses, and repairs and repurposing over time. This in-depth study uses materials lists, construction costs, and sources of raw materials, as well as both civilian and military labor and craftsmen, to detail the building of the structures. Painting a picture to accompany the creation of the fort and its structures are maps, drawings, blueprints, spec sheets, and an incredible collection of the author’s photographs interspersed throughout the narrative. The research has been exhaustively performed and the chronological building of the installation is presented in snapshots of the facility from inception to present day. Private possession is also touched on, reflecting the period following the Army’s ownership, 1852 through 1944. After its role in preparing soldiers for World War II, the Army permanently closed the post as an active military installation.
Spotlighting the human side of Fort Clark are stories of the soldiers and their families, as well as civilian residents, detailing the struggle and harsh life on the Texas prairie. In addition to various military personnel inhabiting the fort, some lesser-known but distinguished units have had the honor of being garrisoned at the post. Acknowledging a few is Troop F, 5th U.S. Cavalry, the 112th Cavalry Regiment of the Texas National Guard, the Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry, and a contingent of black enlisted women of the Women’s Army Corps’ 1855th Service Unit.This well-written book highlights how the men and women stationed there rose to the challenges of manning the fort and developing it from a lonely, defensive outpost to a thriving and vibrant garrison and training facility.
Letters, diary entries, and notes from military and civilian residents alike help the reader understand life as a resident of Fort Clark. Haenn also examines the social stratification and how it impacted all phases of life, including mess, barracks and billets, and recreational infrastructure such as officer and enlisted clubs. Written for the military historian, student of architectural design, or anyone interested in the fascinating history of the early settlement of our country, this informative book will demonstrate the importance of preserving a piece of American history and to honor those before us and educating many generations to come.
James William Brady
Port Orange, Florida
