Fort Basinger, Florida…

Where Ghosts Dwell Along a River

In 1837, Fort Basinger was established by Col. Zachary Taylor during the Second Seminole War on the south bank of the Kissimmee River, and named in honor of Lt. William Basinger, who was killed in the Dade Massacre on December 28, 1835.

The fort included a log palisade with block houses and served as a logistical supply center for military actions and provided medical services to sick and wounded soldiers. Today, where survivors of the Battle of Lake Okeechobee once were treated for their wounds, is now located a recreational wilderness area for horseback riding, hiking, and fishing… and in the shadows remains the ghosts of soldiers who fought in the longest and most deadly war ever waged against U.S. Native Americans. Fort Basinger is located on U.S. Highway 98 in southeastern Highlands County.