firing the cannon at Fort Croghan

Journey back in time to the 1800s during Fort Croghan Day, October 10, 2026, hosted by Fort Croghan Grounds and Museum. The historical site in Burnet annually opens its gates to visitors for a taste of what life was like in the 1850s. 

History of Fort Croghan

Established in March 1849, Fort Croghan was one of eight forts spanning the state of Texas created with the mission of protecting settlers. The fort was operational for four years and is credited with settlement in the area that is now Burnet County. The fort officially closed in December of 1853 but the facility continued to be used by the community. 

quilter at Fort Croghan Day
Visitors will see quilters at work as well as spinners and weavers. Staff photo

Fort Croghan Today

Today, the original grounds house eight authentic historical structures furnished as they would have been at that point in time. The buildings include a blacksmith shop, a stagecoach house, the original Fort Croghan adjutant’s office, a corn crib, a schoolhouse, an outhouse, the fort’s original lookout building, and dwellings including the Fry Cabin, the Kincheloe Cabin, the Altman House, and the Vanderveer House.

Fort Croghan Day

Fort Croghan Day includes demonstrations and displays of various trades that were vital to life in the 1800s. Visitors will see craftsmen in period costume at work in a variety of trades such as flint knapping, blacksmithing, wood carving, rope making, and more. Household tasks like biscuit making, butter churning, and quilting will also be on display. Visitors can even get hands-on and make their own corn husk doll.

tipi at Fort Croghan
Fort Croghan Museum in Burnet displays an authentic replica of a tipi that Native American tribes — particularly the Comanche — that frequented this area used. Though it might appear a simple shelter, the design was quite well thought out for functionality, efficiency and portability. Staff photo

The day will also include a Native American presentation and a replica tipi on site. Those on the grounds by 10 a.m. will witness a ‘gunfight’ by Old West gunfighters as well as an occasional firing of the cannon. A vendor will be on site selling BBQ sandwiches for purchase. The Burnet County Heritage Society will have baked goods for sale, all proceeds from the bake sale directly benefit the museum and grounds.

Fort Croghan Day takes place annually on the second Saturday in October from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fort Croghan Grounds and Museum, 703 Buchanan Dr. (TX-29) in Burnet. The event is free to attend, donations are always appreciated.