“Images of America: Fort Davis” by Lawrence John Francell is a captivating photographic journey through the historical landscape of Fort Davis, Texas. Published on August 8, 2011, this volume is part of the renowned “Images of America” series, which celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns, and cities across the country through archival photographs.
In this book, Francell, a respected historian and retired director of the Museum of the Big Bend at Sul Ross State University, curates a collection of images that illustrate the rich history of Fort Davis, established in 1854 and named after then U.S. Secretary of War Jefferson Davis. The book highlights the strategic military significance of Fort Davis in the settlement of the Davis Mountains’ expansive grasslands and its role as a home to the African American regiments known as the Buffalo Soldiers. It also covers the court-martial of Lt. Henry Flipper, the first African American graduate from West Point, offering readers a unique visual entry into these pivotal events.
Supported by the collections of the Fort Davis Historical Society, Fort Davis National Historic Site, the University of Texas McDonald Observatory, and many private individuals, the images in the book bring to life the people, events, and landscapes that have shaped the region. Each photograph is accompanied by detailed captions that provide context and stories, making the history accessible and engaging.
“Images of America: Fort Davis” is more than just a book; it is a visual archive that invites readers to step back in time and experience the evolution of a community that has played a fundamental role in the American West. It is an ideal read for history enthusiasts, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the past through the lens of those who lived it.
