Fort Griffin Historic Site Sits on a Bluff North of Albany

The U.S. Army built Fort Griffin in 1867 on the Clear Fork of the Brazos River. The fort protected settlers on the Texas frontier and served as a supply point for soldiers scouting against Comanche and Kiowa raids. Below the fort, a rough civilian settlement called the Flat (also known as Hidetown) grew up as a hub for buffalo hunters and cattle drivers.

The Western Trail, a major cattle drive route, crossed the Clear Fork near Fort Griffin. After the Army left and the buffalo herds were gone, the town declined. Today the Texas Historical Commission manages the site. It is home to the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd, jointly managed with Texas Parks and Wildlife. Living history events portray frontier life of the 1870s. Check the Texas Historical Commission's website for current hours, fees, and event schedules before visiting.