Camp Naco, Arizona
Nestled in the southeastern corner of Arizona, near the border with Mexico, lies Camp Naco, a historical site that whispers tales of revolution, border security, and the enduring spirit of the American West. Once known as Fort Naco and Fort Newell, this military camp played a pivotal role in the early 20th century, serving as a crucial outpost during the tumultuous years of the Mexican Revolution. It stands as one of the last forts built on the continental territory and the sole surviving border fort among those constructed during that era.
A Strategic Response to Border Unrest
The story of Camp Naco begins in November 1910, when soldiers were first stationed there. The camp’s establishment was a direct response to the escalating conflict south of the border. The Mexican Revolution, a period of intense social and political upheaval, spilled over into the United States, threatening the peace and security of border communities. Battles erupted just across the line, most notably the Battle of Naco in 1913 and the Siege of Naco in 1915, both fought in Sonora, Mexico.
The presence of American troops at Camp Naco served as a deterrent to rebel activity on U.S. soil. It also provided a sense of security for American citizens who flocked to Naco, Arizona, to witness the dramatic events unfolding across the border. The camp became a vital observation point, allowing the U.S. military to monitor the situation and respond to any potential threats.
The Buffalo Soldiers: Guardians of the Border
Following Pancho Villa’s raid on Columbus, New Mexico, in 1916, Naco, Arizona, became a strategic staging area for American troops tasked with protecting the border. Fort Huachuca, a nearby military installation, assigned African American Buffalo Soldier units to the Naco Cantonment. These brave men, renowned for their courage and dedication, patrolled the border from 1911 to 1924, safeguarding American lives and property.
The Buffalo Soldiers played a crucial role in maintaining order and preventing the conflict from escalating into U.S. territory. Their presence was a testament to the diversity of the American military and their commitment to serving the nation, even in the face of prejudice and discrimination.
From Camp to Fort: A Symbol of Border Defense
In 1917, Camp Naco was officially established as part of the Mexican Border Project. Two years later, construction began on a more permanent fort, a project that continued until 1922 under the auspices of the United States War Department’s Border Defense Construction initiative. Camp Naco holds the distinction of being the only border post constructed of adobe, a testament to the region’s unique architectural style and the resourcefulness of its builders.
The fort housed members of the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 25th Infantry of the U.S. Army, as well as the headquarters of the 1st Infantry Regiment of the Arizona National Guard. Troop strength varied from 50 to 5,000 soldiers, depending on the perceived level of threat. The presence of these troops served as a constant reminder of the U.S. government’s commitment to protecting its borders and citizens.
Decline and Rediscovery
With the waning of the Mexican Revolution in 1923, the need for a large military presence at Camp Naco diminished. The camp was closed, its mission seemingly complete. However, its story did not end there. In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) reoccupied the site, using it as a base of operations for their conservation efforts in the region. The CCC’s presence breathed new life into the camp, but it was short-lived, as they departed in 1937.
Over the ensuing years, the adobe and wooden buildings of Camp Naco fell into disrepair. Vandalism, erosion, and arson took their toll, leaving the site in a state of decline. Its historical significance was in danger of being lost forever.
A Legacy Preserved
In 1990, efforts to preserve Camp Naco began, with the site passing through various hands. Finally, in 2018, the city of Bisbee, Arizona, acquired the property, recognizing its historical value and potential as a cultural landmark.
Today, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the nonprofit group Friends of Camp Naco, some of the buildings have been partially restored. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its protection and preservation for future generations.
Visiting Camp Naco: A Glimpse into the Past
Although the buildings are currently behind a chain-link fence due to vandalism, visitors can still view them from the road. The site offers a tangible connection to a pivotal period in American history, a time when the nation grappled with issues of border security, immigration, and international relations.
As you stand before the weathered adobe walls of Camp Naco, imagine the soldiers who once stood guard here, the Buffalo Soldiers who patrolled the border, and the American citizens who sought refuge from the turmoil across the line. Let the stories of Camp Naco remind you of the enduring spirit of the American West and the importance of preserving our nation’s heritage.
Also See:
- Arizona Forts
- Arizona – The Grand Canyon State
- Forts Across America
- American Forts Photo Gallery
Sources:
- Archaeology Southwest
- Camp Naco Historical Signboards
- Desert Explorations
- Wikipedia
(C) Kathy Alexander/Legends of America, updated March 2025.