Experiencing American History at Historic Forts

Confession time. Patriotism isn’t natural for me. I never felt the pull for military service. I don’t vote very often. I hate politics. But, play the Star Spangled Banner, and I’m holding back the tears.🇺🇸 Hopefully, by giving my kids a great foundation in American history, their gratitude for those who fought for our freedoms will grow. I’m ever thankful for those veterans who gave so much for us. ❤️ While road-tripping around the US, make sure you go to the forts, experience where history was made, and if you can participate in the flag ceremony. One of my favorite travel memories continues to be the flag ceremony at Fort Larned in Kansas. After finishing up their Junior Ranger packets at the end of the day, the kids were invited to stay and help take the flag down. The amazing ranger led the salute while instructing the kids, and my little Boy Scout (at the time) got to carry the flag into the building. Don’t just drive through. Stop at Fort Larned. ▪️Learn of its role protecting travelers heading west in the 1860s. ▪️Compare the officers’ quarters to the enlisted barracks. ▪️Become a junior ranger with learning at the museum. ▪️Stroll the trail down to the original dugout quarters. ▪️See the nearby ruts from the Santa Fe Trail. Other amazing forts we’ve explored are 💠Fort Sumter in South Carolina, 💠Fort Osage in Missouri, & 💠Fort Scott in Kansas. 💠💠And we’re headed to Fort McHenry soon on our family trip! 🙏Thank your favorite veteran today… and every other day. 👉Save this for your next cross-country trip! Where did American history come alive for you?