Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas
Nestled in the rugged landscape of West Texas, near a life-sustaining spring and under the watchful gaze of a towering bluff, lies the historical site of Cantonment Pena Colorada. Established in 1879, this military outpost played a crucial role in shaping the region’s history, serving as a sentinel against cross-border incursions and a vital support system for westward expansion. The story of Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, is one interwoven with the narratives of the U.S. Army, Native American tribes, the burgeoning railroad, and the relentless spirit of the American frontier.
The very name of the cantonment, "Pena Colorada," meaning "red rock" in Spanish, is derived from the prominent geological feature that dominates the surrounding terrain. These bluffs, also known as Rainbow Cliffs, provided a striking visual landmark in an otherwise arid landscape. The creek that flowed nearby, fed by a perennial spring, shared the same name, and this water source was a critical element in the region’s history long before the arrival of the U.S. Army.
Before the establishment of Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, the area served as a significant stop along the Comanche Trail. For generations, Comanche and other nomadic Native American groups utilized the spring as a reliable source of water for themselves and their horses. These annual raiding parties would replenish their supplies at the spring before venturing south into Mexico, where they targeted isolated villages for plunder. The presence of this readily available water source made the location strategically important, both for Native Americans and, later, for the U.S. military.
The decision to establish a military presence at Pena Colorada was driven by the need to curtail Indian raids into Mexico. During the late 19th century, these raids were a persistent source of tension between the two nations. To address this issue, the U.S. government sought to establish a network of military outposts along the border, aimed at deterring and intercepting raiding parties. Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, was one such outpost, strategically positioned to monitor key routes and crossings.
Under the command of Colonel Benjamin Grierson, the District of the Pecos Commander headquartered at Fort Concho, troops from the 10th Cavalry and the 25th Infantry arrived at Pena Colorada in August 1879. These units, composed of both white and African American soldiers, were tasked with establishing and maintaining the cantonment. The 10th Cavalry, in particular, was comprised of the famed "Buffalo Soldiers," African American troops who earned a reputation for bravery and effectiveness in the face of challenging conditions and prejudice.
The concept of a military road connecting Fort Clark to Fort Davis predates the establishment of Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, by nearly two decades. In 1860, then-Lieutenant Colonel Robert E. Lee, commanding officer of the Department of Texas under President James Buchanan’s Secretary of War, was directed to plan such a route. However, the outbreak of the Civil War and the subsequent period of Reconstruction delayed the implementation of these plans. It wasn’t until the late 1870s that the project was revived, with the establishment of Cantonment Pena Colorada serving as a key component.
The mission of the troops stationed at Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, extended beyond simply preventing Indian raids. They were also responsible for improving regional military communication, controlling the crucial water supply at the spring, and supporting the development of the Southern Pacific Railway. The construction of the railroad was a major undertaking that transformed the American West, and the military played a vital role in protecting railway workers and ensuring the safe passage of trains.
Unlike many other military installations of the era, Cantonment Pena Colorada was never formally fortified. Its official designation was simply "cantonment," indicating a temporary or semi-permanent encampment. Despite the lack of fortifications, the post served as an important base of operations for troops patrolling the surrounding area.
During the campaigns against Apache leaders Victorio in 1880 and Geronimo in 1885, troopers from Camp Pena Colorado played a crucial role in patrolling the remote crossings of the Rio Grande. Their presence deterred raiding parties and helped to maintain order in a volatile region. These campaigns were marked by long patrols, harsh conditions, and frequent skirmishes with Apache warriors. The Buffalo Soldiers, in particular, distinguished themselves in these engagements, demonstrating their skill and resilience in the face of adversity.
By 1886, Cantonment Pena Colorada had evolved into a more established post, featuring a parade ground and several buildings constructed from native stone and adobe. These structures, plastered with mud and topped with dirt roofs, included two barracks for enlisted men, two officer quarters, a storehouse for supplies, and a granary for storing grain. Recognizing the need for shade in the arid climate, Irish-born troopers, drawing on their thatching traditions, hauled in grass and created shaded areas over the stacked rock horse corrals.
The completion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in February 1883 marked a turning point in the history of the region. The railroad brought with it the material superiority of a rapidly expanding United States, facilitating the transportation of troops, supplies, and settlers. As the railroad network grew, the need for military outposts like Cantonment Pena Colorada diminished. The ability to quickly deploy troops and supplies by rail rendered the isolated cantonment less strategically important.
As the military necessity of Camp Pena Colorada decreased, the post was officially abandoned on February 11, 1893. After fourteen years of service, the troops stationed there were reassigned to other posts, and the buildings were left to the elements. Over time, the structures deteriorated, and today, no original buildings remain standing at the site.
Today, the land where Cantonment Pena Colorada once stood is now known as the "Marathon Post Park." Located approximately 5.5 miles southwest of Marathon, Texas, the park offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history. While the buildings are gone, the landscape remains, and visitors can imagine what life was like for the soldiers who served at this remote outpost. To reach the park, take Avenue D south out of Marathon for about five miles, then turn right onto Post Ranch Road for about 0.5 miles.
The legacy of Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, lives on in the stories of the soldiers who served there, particularly the Buffalo Soldiers of the 10th Cavalry. These brave men, including Lieutenant Henry O. Flipper, faced prejudice and hardship while serving their country on the frontier. Their contributions to the settlement and development of the American West are a testament to their courage and dedication. The story of Cantonment Pena Colorada, Texas, is a reminder of the complex and often challenging history of the American frontier, and the diverse individuals who shaped it.