Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site - Fort Sumner, New Mexico

Allison T.

Heartbreaking but definitely so important to know. This museum was put together and very accurate information. By not only adding the history but also by adding cultural elements, the museum was very well put together.

Elissah M.

I've been learning about The Long Walk, and found this site in my self-education efforts. I also happened to see a reviewer rated it only 3 stars ~2 years ago simply because there wasn't a "nice relaxing sitting room at the end of it for your to ponder your thoughts", and because the beautiful gift shop was closed early. I wanted to counter that review and point out that this site is about giving voice to those who suffered an unforgivable cultural genocide, that we are not owed a "nice relaxing sitting room" at the end of an uncomfortable history lesson. I would never think to dock a rating of a museum that shares the voices of a traumatized people because their gift shop closed early. Please remember that our purpose in visiting this site is to learn, to reflect, and to make change. I hope this place can survive the next 4 years with potential cuts in funding from the federal government.

Stephanie C.

Okay comfortably laid out easy to follow password, well guided, interactive attractions, Elijah to learn more in depth if you so chose and then I don’t have a nice relaxing sitting room at the end of it for you to ponder your thoughts you discuss what you would just learn about the Native Americans, and what we have done to them.

Handicap accessible there are public bathrooms. There may be a small fee, but we were free because of military. There is plenty of parking and we were told if there is a absolutely beautiful gift shop the place is close a little bit early the hours may say 4 PM, but the doors were locked before that .

Alabama Z.

Moving and heartbreaking. Not to be missed. The story of the native people of these lands and how they were treated by an invading force is a lesson in history for all. It teaches what can happen when a government decides it knows what is best for everyone under a single umbrella, rather than allowing people to pursue their lives and their cultures freely. Highly recommend!

Wayne W. J.

This place was interesting and eerie at the same time. The things that happened here have been forgotten or not know by many. I feel honored to have the opportunity to be able to stop and enjoy our historical landmarks and/or memorials like this.

Alicia E.

We visited during Spring Break 2019, and we had a wonderful time! The staff was kind and informative, and the exhibits were interesting and fun. We especially loved being able to interact with the animals. I highly recommend you visit!

Vermithrax P.

This site, like many of the historic locations of NM, revolves around both a contradiction of narratives, and the clash of cultures.

On one hand, the site speaks to the importance of the westward migration of a fledgling United States during the mid-to-late 19th century. Uniforms and other US army artifacts on display, the fort's remnants are available to view, and the barracks building, full of accoutrements, is open to the public to view. On the other hand, the site speaks to the suffering meted out to other peoples in order for that "manifest destiny" to sweep through.

At its heart, the Bosque Redondo Memorial is a testament to the resilience of the Navajo and Apache peoples; The story of those who were denied their agency by the federal army and government is related through murals, displays, and a video presentation in the museum building. The grounds also contain a remembrance area, right on the path to the old fort ruins.

Taken as a whole, The Fort Sumner Historical site / Bosque Redondo Memorial is well worth a visit. It tells the story of our westward expansion, but does so in an unflinching way, not shying away from the human toll that was paid by those who were removed and dehumanized in order to facilitate the growth of this nation.

Dom R.

Loved it! Park ranger was more than helpful, very well informed and hospitable. Got to see THE peace treaty signed by the u.s. and natives. Also has ruins of the old Fort and replica of barracks with civil war items. In the back is the spot where Billy the Kid was slain by Sheriff Pat Garrett. Nice gift shop with reasonably priced items. Highly recommend this place.