Fort Harrison was the city’s major military facility before its closing in the 1990s. Beginning in 1902, the fort served in a
training capacity for two World Wars, the Cold War, Vietnam War, and other U.S. actions. For many, the fort was a point of
induction into or release from military service. It remains an excellent example of military facility planning from the early
20th century and includes many of its original 1902-10 era buildings. In the 1990s, Fort Harrison was decommissioned.
Private development has been allowed to use excess parts of the fort, adding new neighborhoods. Former officer housing
and barracks have been rehabilitated for private use. Much of the grounds were kept in a natural state during the Army’s
stewardship of the base. Fort Harrison State Park is open to the public and includes hiking and horseback trails, golf, and
dining facilities at the former Officers’ Club.