Hospital at Fort Klamath - 1888

This rare photo shows the Hospital at Fort Klamath two years before the fort was closed in 1890. From a boudoir card photo by David C. Herrin, who at that time had his studio in Medford. Thanks to Todd Kepple, manager of the Klamath County Museum, who helped us identify the building. Detail view 1 shows a military man and a fellow in an apron, who I first thought was a cook. Now that we know it's a hospital, it's possible he was an orderly.

Fort Klamath was established in 1863, and was an important Army post during conflicts with the Klamath, Modoc, and Northern Paiute tribes. The fort consisted of more than 50 buildings, including a sawmill. It was closed when local settlers no longer needed protection, and the 14th Infantry Regiment was moved to Vancouver Barracks.

-- This photo is restored and printed by Old Oregon.