We started our road trip today, a day late. Since we don’t really have anywhere to be at a certain time, we basically don’t have a time schedule to keep.
Our first planned stopped was the Caverns of Sonora, however, on our way there I found a little gem in Mason, Texas. So we decided to stop, check it out, and stretch our legs.
The Site of Fort Mason is a reconstruction of the officers quarters built in 1976 and is maintained by the Mason County Historical Society.
The fort operated from 1851-1869.
Fun Fact: There were more officers who later became Generals assigned to this pre-Civil War post that any other location.
From the Historical Marker:
Established July 6, 1851 by the U.S. Army as a protection to the frontier. Named in honor of Lieut. George T. Mason, killed in action near Brownsville, April 25, 1846. Albert Sidney Johnston, George H. Thomas, Earl Van Dorn and Robert E. Lee, of the 2nd U.S. Cavalry, were stationed here at intervals from 1856 to 1861. Evacuated by Federal troops, March 29, 1861 and reoccupied after the Civil War until 1869. (1936)
Our Thoughts
Great place to stop and stretch your legs if you are driving through. Or if you like to take scenic drives, I’d suggest a drive out here. There is also a museum down the road. We didn’t have a chance to stop at the museum due to the time of day and we were trying to get to the caverns before they closed, so I can’t give you my opinion on that.
Downtown Mason was amazing to drive through. Would be a great place to go shopping for the day and visit all the stores and walk around.
Definitely worth coming out for a day trip, especially since it is only a little less than 2 hours from Fort Hood!
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