The fort housed one company of infantry and cavalry, including units of black troops whom the Indians called "Buffalo Soldiers."
By 1890, criminals and Apache raiding parties were no longer considered threats. Fort Selden, like other small army forts in the Southwest, belonged to another era, and the government decommissioned it in 1891.
Today the stark adobe brick walls of the frontier post evoke a feeling of personal connection to the past. A visitor center at the monument offers exhibits on frontier military life during the fort's heyday. Living history demonstrations of 19th century military life highlight most weekends during the summer.
