By Fort Larned NHS
LARNED, Kan. — It’s official, we’re getting the band back together. As some may remember, the Fort Larned Post Band was once an ongoing program enjoyed by both participants and listeners.
In evaluating the resources currently available at Fort Larned, we realized that presenting this aspect of 19th-century life is something we are able to do. However, in order to execute this idea, Fort Larned NHS is looking for volunteers who have a passion for music and a passion for sharing that music with others.
The Fort Larned Post Band seeks to present music that would have been heard by those at Fort Larned and Kansas in the late 1860s. In a time where the only way to listen to music was by live performance, bands were a sought-after commodity to provide entertainment, especially in a mundane location such as a frontier post.
Regimental bands were also a commodity as it was a sure way to increase the morale of the soldiers, especially while on the march. While regimental bands saw a decrease in emphasis during the Civil War, they certainly existed through the Civil War and after.
Though there is no historic evidence of Fort Larned having its own Post Band, the Fort Larned Post Band will seek to represent the feel and sound of music from 19th-century regimental bands. We hope you will soon be able to enjoy this aspect of 19th-century life and if you are interested in helping Fort Larned NHS present this aspect of history!
If you or someone you know is interested in this opportunity to give back to your community, feel free to email us at [email protected] or call us at 620-285-6911 and feel free to ask any questions you may have.
