Following the American occupation of New Mexico in 1846, the Santa Fe
Trail became increasingly important as a trade route. As caravans
increased, so did the depredations of Indians who subjected the commerce
of the Trail and the adjoining villages and ranches to continued attacks.
Numerous forts were built in New Mexico to help protect travelers and
settlers in these uneasy times.
Then, after the railroad had succeeded the Trail as the principal
route of transportation, and the Indians had been subdued, most of the
forts were abandoned. Bricks, roof tin, lumber, and shingles were
sold or left in place, and in a few years only standing walls remained.