 Military forts and outposts have a long and important role in Wyoming's history. Fort Casper is no exception. The original outpost was named Platt Bridge Station and is located near the First Mormon Ferry Crossing and later the Gennard Bridge. The site was also a Pony Express station prior to the Army occupation in 1862. The Army's primary duty was to protect the telegraph. Calling conflicts from the Sand Creek Massacre, troops from Platt Bridge Station were sent to escort a military supply train in July of 1865. The escort was led by a Lieutenant named Casper Collins when they were attacked by Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho right after crossing the bridge. Five troops and Collins were killed during the conflict, known as the Battle of Platt Bridge. Later that day an additional conflict occurred when the train reached the fort known as the Battle of Red Buttes. Following the death of Lieutenant Casper Collins in 1865, the outpost was renamed Fort Casper. In 1867 the fort was deconstructed and salvageable materials were moved and used in the construction of Fort Fetterman. So the next time you're in Casper, take the time to visit Fort Casper and take a step into the past. From the University of Wyoming Extension, I'm Brian Sebade, Exploring the Nature of Wyoming.