Ft. Thomas Army Post

Historical marker location:

Ft. Thomas, Kentucky

( Ft. Thomas Post, Ft. Thomas)

Established by Congress, 1887. Constructed at cost of $3,500,000 on about 111 acres, jurisdiction of which was ceded to U.S. by Kentucky Legislature, 1888. Post was designated Ft. Thomas, 1890. First commander was Col. Melville Cochran; first garrison two 6th infantry companies. Later parts of 2, 3, 4, 9, 10th Infantry Regiments were here. Now V.A. Hosp.(Reverse) Rock of Chickamauga - Gen. George Henry Thomas for whom post was named. Born Va., 1816; West Point graduate. In Indian campaigns and Mexican War. In the Civil War, from Mill Springs, Ky., Jan. 1862, to Nashville, Tenn., Dec. 1864, he successfully led Federal forces in many principal engagements. Rated one of four top Union generals. Pacific Div. Commander at death, 1870.

Forts and Stations Mexican War West Point

Kentucky was the site of many important battles during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Perryville, which was the largest battle fought in the state.