8. Captain's Quarters

The building designated Captain’s Quarters was built in 1868-1870 and was originally designed to be the Post Commander’s house. The Commander, however, preferred another house, and upon hearing this, the Fort Laramie Quartermaster converted the structure into a duplex.

The building was constructed at a time when the garrison at Fort Laramie was increasing and housing for officers was in short supply. If a new officer was assigned to the Fort, he could rank out of quarters any officer junior to him, appropriating the house for his own. Some very junior officers and their families were ranked into halls or even tents for short periods of time.

The building has been refurnished to its appearance in the year 1872. The East side of the duplex has been restored to reflect the residence of a Captain and his family. The West side has been furnished to show how a Lieutenant of more modest means might live.