Colorado's first military post, Fort Garland, was established in 1858 to protect settlers. It lies in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. They were named the Blood of Christ Mountains because of their ruddy color, especially at dawn. The legendary Kit Carson commanded the outfit, and the six original adobe structures are still standing. The Fort Garland State Museum features a re-creation of the commandant's quarters, period military displays, and a rotating local folk-art exhibit. The museum is 16 mi north of San Luis via Route 159 and 24 mi east of Alamosa via U.S. 160.
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